I like many Australians, I love the ritual of a well-crafted gin and tonic. But after deciding to cut back on alcohol, I worried I’d have to give up that refreshing, botanical experience. That’s when I discovered the world of Australian-made non-alcoholic gin, and I haven’t looked back.
For me, it wasn’t just about avoiding alcohol; it was about keeping the flavour and social experience alive. Non-alcoholic gins are crafted to deliver the same aromatic complexity as traditional gin, but with zero or negligible alcohol content and far fewer calories. Many are also low in sugar, gluten free, and vegan-friendly.
Standout Australian Brands
Australia has quickly become a leader in the alcohol-free spirits movement, with distillers focusing on native botanicals and sustainability. Here are some of my favourites:
Four Pillars Bandwagon: Four Pillars, a renowned Yarra Valley distillery, offers Bandwagon Dry and Bloody Bandwagon, non-alcoholic versions inspired by their classic gins, featuring juniper, orange, lemon myrtle, and more.
Seadrift Distillery: Based in New South Wales, Seadrift uses fresh-cut botanicals and local sea kelp for a bright, coastal flavour. Their spirits are zero percent alcohol and capture the essence of the Australian coastline.
Brunswick Aces: Pioneers in the field, Brunswick Aces offers three distinct blends, Spades Sapiir, Hearts Sapiir, and Diamonds Sapiir, each with a unique Australian botanical profile.
Ms Sans: Known for their Call Me Indigo Butterfly Pea Gin Substitute and Juniper Berry Blush Pink Gin Substitute , Ms Sans delivers vibrant, alcohol-free alternatives perfect for mixing.
Polka: This South Australian brand uses local grapes and native botanicals to create a premium non-alcoholic gin experience.
ALTD Spirits: With inventive blends like Green Grocer, Golden Emperor, and Silver Princess, ALTD Spirits offers bold, uniquely Australian flavours using native ingredients.
You can find these brands at specialty bottle shops, online retailers like Sans Drinks, and even some local distilleries and bars. Many offer pre-mixed non-alcoholic gin and tonics, making it easy to enjoy a sophisticated drink anywhere.
The Experience
Swapping to non-alcoholic gin hasn’t meant giving up on taste or ritual for me. Whether it’s a Friday night with friends or a quiet moment after work, these Australian-made spirits offer all the complexity and refreshment I crave, without the hangover.
If you’re curious, I recommend starting with a tasting set or visiting a distillery. You might be surprised at just how good a non-alcoholic gin can be.
Popular Australian Non-Alcoholic Gin Brands:
Four Pillars Bandwagon Dry & Bloody Bandwagon
Seadrift Distillery
Brunswick Aces (Spades, Hearts, Diamonds Sapiir)
Ms Sans (Indigo Butterfly Pea, Juniper Berry Blush)
Polka Non-Alc Botanical Spirit
ALTD Spirits (Green Grocer, Golden Emperor, Silver Princess)
Manly Spirits Lilly Pilly Pink Zero
Lyre’s Dry London Spirit
Note: All listed brands are alcohol-free or contain less than 0.5% ABV, which is considered non-alcoholic in Australia.
Choosing Australian-made non-alcoholic gin means supporting local producers, enjoying native flavours, and keeping the spirit of gin alive, no matter your lifestyle.