REVIEW: Clausthaler Non-Alcoholic Beer

Clausthaler (Frankfurt, Germany) Original Non-Alcoholic Beer

Where’d We Find It: Total Wine & More

ABV: < 0.5%

Hometown: Frankfurt, Germany (Binding-Brauerei Brewery)

Our N/ATION Review:

This German institution is the OG of non-alcoholic OGs, at least in the modern age. While there were near beers in existence prior to Clausthaler’s release in 1979, including famously in the U.S. before the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, this German brew wears the crown as the world’s first official non-alcoholic beer, and is the most famous beer produced from the country’s tongue twisting Binding-Brauerei Brewery. While Clausthaler also comes in a Grapefruit flavor, and more recently, an IPA, the original resides in a familiar green bottle known the world over.

From the jump, this < .5% ABV NA pours like any other beer, and the taste is a clean, classic drink with a hint of that dry hoppiness you’d expect from a German beer. Like anything crafted in this brewing history-rich part of the world, it’s also made in accordance with the German Beer Purity Law (Reinheitsgebot), which means you know it comes from just malt, hops, yeast & water, and nothing else. All in all, a refreshing NA beer weighing in at 92 calories per 12 fluid ounces, and just under 20 grams of carbs.

As to where you can find Clausthaler in North America, the good news is the world’s original non-alcoholic beer can be found just about anywhere, including grocery stores, beverage stores, and on occasion, a restaurant or bar beer list as well.