Bourbon has more credible non-alcoholic alternatives than any other spirit category. Real distillation processes have caught up to the point where a well-made NA bourbon can carry an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan without the drink feeling hollow. The trade-off across most picks is the same: you sacrifice some warmth and length compared to real bourbon, but gain a cleaner finish and zero hangover.
When you’ll actually need a non-alcoholic bourbon substitute
These come into play for spirit-forward drinks where bourbon is the centerpiece — an Old Fashioned, a Manhattan, a Whiskey Sour, or a Bourbon and Coke. For drinks where bourbon plays a supporting role (a Hot Toddy or a Kentucky Mule), almost any of these picks will work.
If you’d rather build the flavor yourself, our DIY bourbon substitutes guide covers five recipes using black tea, vanilla, and maple syrup.
How we ranked these
We compared on four criteria: flavor authenticity vs. real bourbon, cocktail versatility, value for money, and finish/length. Spiritless Kentucky 74 won overall on flavor but Lyre’s gets the nod for cocktail flexibility. Ritual is the budget premium pick. Full breakdown below.
The full ranking
Spiritless Kentucky 74
Why it's #1: The most decorated NA bourbon on the market. Real distillation gives it caramel, oak, and a finish that holds up in stirred drinks.
- 700ml bottle
- Fully distilled (not flavored water)
- Award-winning (Good Food Awards)
- Non-GMO and vegan
- Pairs well in Old Fashioneds and Manhattans
Lyre's American Malt
Why it's #2: The most flexible NA bourbon for mixing. Slightly smoky with a sweet malt backbone — disappears nicely into cola, ginger ale, or sour cocktails.
- 700ml bottle
- Award-winning
- Smoky-sweet profile
- Wide retail availability
- Plays well with citrus and cola
Ritual Zero Proof Whiskey
Why it's #3: The cheapest premium NA bourbon. Bigger 750ml bottle for less than the others, with a spicy oak profile that's surprisingly assertive.
- 750ml bottle (biggest in class)
- Only 5 calories
- US-made and sustainably produced
- Spicy, oak-forward profile
- Award-winning
Monday Zero Alcohol Whiskey
Why it's #4: Closest to actually pouring a real bourbon. Smooth caramel and vanilla, no harsh edges. Built for sipping neat or on a single rock.
- 750ml bottle
- Zero carbs, no sugar, 0 calories
- Award-winning
- Smooth caramel and vanilla
- Designed for neat pours
Wilderton Earthen
Why it's #5: Pushes hardest on the smoke and oak character. If you usually drink mezcal or peated whisky, this is your alcohol-free version.
- 750ml bottle
- Spice, wood, and smoke notes
- Botanical distillation
- Made in Oregon
- Distinctive aged-spirit character
