Ritual Zero Proof Tequila Alternative

Following a decent experience with Ritual's 0% ABV whiskey (best when mixed, not neat), I tried their 0% ABV tequila. This isn't meant to substitute the original but serve as an alternative, akin to choosing a scooter over a BMW. They are entirely different categories and shouldn't be compared, only sharing the characteristic of having wheels. This cannot be consumed neat or on the rocks; it requires mixing. I followed a recipe using equal parts orange juice and this spirit, a bit of no-calorie agave sweetener, a splash of lime juice, and plenty of ice. It's surprisingly palatable, good enough for me to make a second serving. It doesn't resemble tequila but has a herbal flavor with a peppery burn in the throat, necessitating the sweetener to balance it. Would I drink it again? Yes, but at $26 a bottle, it's not worth it; orange juice with or without lime would be a better choice.

An intense, Non-Alcoholic Agave Spirit from Illinois crafted for mocktails. It begins aromatically with notes of agave, herbs & spices; a bold middle introduces grassy & mineral notes; culminating in a long & harsh finish with hints of salt & pepper. January 2023