The 2025 World Alcohol-Free Awards has awarded eight Gold medals to Australian non-alc wine and spirits producers.

The World Alcohol-Free Awards is an international competition for alcohol-free beverages (with alcohol content up to 0.5%), founded in 2022. The world’s largest alcohol-free competition includes various beverage categories, including beer, wine, and other alcohol-free alternatives.

This year’s competition saw entries rise by 30%, coming from a record 31 countries.  

IWSR reports the no- and low-alcohol drinks market is experiencing a transformative period of growth, driven by evolving consumer behaviours and the momentum of no-alcohol. 

The latest findings from IWSR’s No- and Low-Alcohol Strategic Study 2024 show the category is expected to deliver incremental growth of US$4 billion+ by 2028.

The report found no-alcohol segment recruits more new consumers than its low-alcohol counterpart, with an increase of 61 million buyers versus 38 million for low-alcohol (2024 vs 2022) in the 10 key markets (Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Spain, South Africa, UK, US).

IWSR Head of No- and Low-Alcohol Insights Susie Goldspink said: “As the no-alcohol category matures, consumers want more than just an absence of alcohol. They want products that deliver on taste, complexity, and overall drinking experience. This evolution is pushing the category further, prompting brands to innovate and raise the bar in terms of quality and variety.”

Among the Gold medal winners at the 2025 World Alcohol-Free Awards was Loxton Sparkling Brut, made from grapes grown in South Eastern Australia. It was described by the judges as having “a classic ‘champagne grape’ nose of apples, citrus and white flowers is replicated on a palate that shows a perfectly judged level of carbonation. Juicy, smoky, creamy and fresh, it is immensely drinkable – a perfect aperitif for the AF curious and AF committed drinker alike.”

Australian Vintage’s Gold medal-winning Not Guilty Pinot Grigio was applauded for being “as bright and appealing to look at as it is to taste. Classic Pinot Gris flavours of pear, apple and white blossom lead into a thoroughly likeable palate of citrus and white fruit. Juicily mouth-filling but still quite brisk and fresh, with a mouth-watering finish.”

And the judges said Australian Vintage’s Tempus Two Zero Pinot Grigio, with “flavours of pears and tropical fruits and a gentle dusting of spice” was “a quintessential New World Pinot Grigio”.

“Bright, clean and juicy with plenty of flavour and a citrus zing on the finish, it’s refreshing and flavourful in equal measure. A great way into the world of AF white wine,” they added.

Edenvale Premium Reserve Sparkling Shiraz also took out Gold. The judges noted: “A third consecutive Gold for last year’s Best Wine Trophy winner, and it’s easy to see why. Exuberant flavours of cherry, blackberry and blackcurrant explode on the nose and palate, but the undeniable sweetness is perfectly leavened by the effervescence and it finishes spicy-dry and refreshing. Great chilled summer drinker.”

NON1 Salted Raspberry & Chamomile was described as “a unique and interesting aperitif, but also a versatile alternative to wine as a food-match”.

“Pale rose pink with flavours of darjeeling tea, wild strawberries, tart berries and cherry,” the judges noted. “The flavours continue on the palate, driven by tight, small bubbles, with depth added by a light savoury undertone.”

Newcomer Sammy Piquant‘s The Oaxacan also impressed the judges.

“A rich and complex drink with flavours of honey, smoke and resinuous wood – a sweet/savoury combination that absolutely works,” they said.

“Behind the big-hitting flavours are more delicate floral aromatics and a slightly tangy orange softness, giving a multi-layered drink. This is an excellent neat sipper for tequila/mezcal lovers, but can mix too.”

The judges described Sydney’s Northern Beaches distillery Seadrift‘s Non Alcoholic Whiskie as having “savoury/spicy aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and an oaky/smoke edge”.

“There are hints of west coast whiskey here,” they said. “Palate shows flavours of cloves, leather and black pepper, with some chilli/ginger warmth on the finish. Works nicely with ginger ale to make a spicy cocktail.”

Last but not least, the judges said every taster who tried Lyre’s Non Alcoholic Coffee Originale “loved it unequivocally – and why wouldn’t you?”

“Crowd-pleasing flavours of black coffee, chocolate, vanilla, hazelnut and cardamom with whispers of warm leather,” they added.

“Complex and beautifully balanced, it’s not over-sweet but still has real depth and a long finish. At its best drunk neat.”

Lyre’s, which recently joined distributor the Amber Beverage Group, took out a total of 10 accolades at the awards.

“As the world’s most awarded non-alcoholic brand, we are incredibly proud to claim 10 of their 75 awards given to non-alcoholic spirits and liqueurs worldwide,” Lyre’s said.

“While the non-alcoholic beverages industry continues to grow, it is great to see more varieties, expressions and flavors celebrated on the global stage, allowing consumers choosing to moderate their alcohol consumption more sophisticated options through quality liquid.

“A shout out to our supply chain, sales and marketing teams across the globe for their continued dedication in making Lyre’s available to more people, allowing them to enjoy their drink, their way.”

View the full list of results here.