Alcohol-free wine

Going wine-free for a month has taught our editor and style director a few lessons in 0.0 wine and its effects. Both are feeling fit, for purpose one for a marathon and the other for navigating an Auckland business during what has been a long-drawn-out lockdown. 

Our style director Louise Hilsz is running her first full marathon (October 30th), and in the act of solidarity, both her and editor Trudi Brewer have been sober all October. However, we must admit our religious Foodie Friday indulgence of a cheese platter and a cheeky glass of Rose wine (even by Zoom) is not the same. So we decided to investigate what was on offer in 0.0, alcohol-free wine from our local supermarkets. Check out their reviews below.

Plus & Minus Shiraz, $12

This was my first dip into a zero per cent wine, and I was delighted. I usually drink a Malbec or Syrah; while this wasn’t quite heavy enough to fool me, it satisfied my itch for a glass of vino. It is the perfect match for my favourite goat cheese Le Pico.

- Louise Hilsz.

Edenvale Rose, $12

I like a dark, full-bodied rose, but sadly, while this looks good, it did not satisfy my taste - maybe my hopes for it to be like my favourite Mesta rosè were way too high. Instead, it was too sweet; I felt like I was drinking a glass of Ribena. One word #llacklustre.

- Trudi Brewer.

Funky Monkey Shiraz, $14

So far, this has been my favourite of the 0.0 red wines. It is full-bodied and fruity. I genuinely felt I was drinking wine without the hangover the next day. It paired perfectly with my homemade roasted pumpkin vegetarian lasagne.

- Louise Hilsz.

Jacobs Creek Shiraz, $12

I love this faux wine. I had to read the label twice to see if it had alcohol in it. However, I was super impressed with the rich chocolaty flavour. Jacobs Creek also makes a rose, which I will be trying over the weekend. So far, this has been my pick 10 out of 10 JC.

- Trudi Brewer.

Funky Monkey Rose, $14

I love a pale French rose, and this one tasted just like that, light, fresh with a strawberry bite. I enjoy a glass of rose at social gatherings, so it took centre stage recently on a sunny day in the park, enjoying bubble picnic.

- Louise Hilsz.