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Sensory Analysis of Non-Alcoholic Beers
Non-alcoholic beers are becoming increasingly popular as people look for healthier and alcohol-free alternatives that still offer the experience of traditional beer. Crafting these beverages requires a focus on taste, aroma, and texture - key elements that define the beer-drinking experience. Brands like IMPOSSIBREW® are leading the way with advanced brewing techniques and innovations like their Social Blend™ technology, which enhances flavour, texture, and even provides a calming effect.
Key Points:
- Aroma: Floral and citrus notes mimic traditional beer scents.
- Taste: Balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness for a satisfying flavour.
- Texture: Full-bodied feel achieved through careful brewing processes.
- Challenges: Removing alcohol impacts flavour, aroma, and mouthfeel, but modern techniques address these issues.
- Innovation: IMPOSSIBREW® uses botanicals and nootropics for added relaxation benefits.
Non-alcoholic beers are evolving rapidly with the help of sensory tools, AI, and new brewing methods, bringing them closer to the qualities of traditional beers while offering unique benefits.
Basic tasting practice in beer sensory training
Main Sensory Elements in Non-Alcoholic Beer
Let’s take a closer look at the sensory features that shape the drinking experience of non-alcoholic beer, specifically through the lens of IMPOSSIBREW®. These elements are key to crafting a drink that feels just as enjoyable as its alcoholic counterpart.
Aroma Components
Aroma plays a big role in how we perceive beer. IMPOSSIBREW®'s Enhanced Lager showcases how their Social Blend™ carefully selects hops to replicate the familiar scents of traditional beer. Floral and citrus notes have been shown to be especially important for creating this effect. Their Enhanced Pale Ale uses these aromas to appeal to craft beer lovers, offering a refined scent that feels familiar yet elevated. This attention to aroma sets the tone for an equally thoughtful flavour experience.
Taste Elements
Flavour is where non-alcoholic beer often faces its biggest challenge, but IMPOSSIBREW® strikes a balance between malt sweetness and hop bitterness. Using advanced brewing techniques, they’ve created a crisp, clean taste that holds up against traditional beers. Social Blend™ plays a role here too, enhancing the harmony between malt and hops to deliver a satisfying flavour profile.
Physical Properties
The texture and feel of beer in the mouth - its body and mouthfeel - are just as important as taste and aroma. IMPOSSIBREW® has fine-tuned their brewing process to ensure their beers offer the full-bodied experience that drinkers expect. Their Enhanced Pale Ale, for example, achieves this by focusing on:
- Carbonation: Carefully adjusted for the perfect level of effervescence.
- Protein content: Balanced to ensure a stable, lasting head.
- Brewing temperatures: Precisely controlled to enhance both body and texture.
These physical elements come together to create a drinking experience that’s rich, satisfying, and comparable to traditional beer.
Matching Alcoholic Beer Sensory Qualities
Effects of Alcohol Removal
Recreating the sensory qualities of traditional beer without alcohol is no easy task. The process of removing alcohol can significantly impact the flavour and mouthfeel that beer lovers are used to. IMPOSSIBREW® tackles these challenges with their Social Blend™ technology, designed to maintain the beer-drinking experience.
Here’s how alcohol removal can affect beer:
- Flavour distribution: Alcohol helps spread taste compounds evenly across the palate.
- Aroma: Some volatile compounds responsible for aroma are lost during the dealcoholisation process.
- Body and fullness: Ethanol contributes to the sensation of fullness in beer.
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Enhanced Lager is a great example of how careful ingredient choices and brewing techniques can address these issues. By using their Social Blend™ technology, they manage to retain the complex flavours and balanced profile that drinkers expect, even without the ethanol.
Both flavour and mouthfeel are essential for replicating the classic beer experience, and these elements are carefully considered in their process.
Improving Texture
Once flavour and aroma are adjusted, the next step is refining the texture. IMPOSSIBREW® employs a combination of methods to ensure their alcohol-free beers offer the same satisfying mouthfeel as their alcoholic counterparts.
Temperature Control
Careful control of brewing temperatures helps preserve proteins that contribute to a beer’s body. For instance, IMPOSSIBREW®'s Enhanced Pale Ale showcases how this technique creates a fuller, richer texture without relying on alcohol.
Natural Ingredients
The Social Blend™ includes a mix of natural elements that improve body and texture:
- Malted grains that provide proteins for a richer mouthfeel.
- Specific hop varieties that enhance the sensation of fullness.
- Botanical ingredients that add layers of complexity.
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IMPOSSIBREW® Sensory Development
IMPOSSIBREW® takes flavour and sensory experiences to the next level, blending science and craftsmanship to create beverages that stand out.
Social Blend™ Technology
At the heart of IMPOSSIBREW®'s approach is its patent-pending Social Blend™ technology. Developed in partnership with Dr Paul Chazot, a Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University [1], this technology is designed to mimic both the taste and the calming effects of alcoholic drinks. Social Blend™ combines a unique mix of active botanicals and nootropics, such as L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, and soluble plant fibres. Together, these ingredients provide a well-rounded, satisfying drinking experience. According to research, 71% of customers reported feeling more relaxed after enjoying beverages with Social Blend™ [1].
"Our Social Blend™ technology isn't an accident. It's the result of questioning everything we thought we knew about social drinking. About working with scientists to understand what we're really seeking in these moments of connection. About daring to imagine something that wasn't possible before." - IMPOSSIBREW® [1]
This innovation also ensures that the traditional qualities of beer remain intact, offering an experience that feels familiar yet fresh.
Ingredient Selection Process
IMPOSSIBREW®'s non-alcoholic beers are crafted by blending traditional brewing techniques with cutting-edge methods. Cryogenic fermentation is used to maintain the rich, authentic flavour of beer without the need to remove alcohol [1]. The process incorporates classic ingredients like malted barley, wheat, hops, and yeast, alongside the proprietary Social Blend™ components, Vitamin B1, and various plant extracts [1].
This thoughtful approach has not gone unnoticed. IMPOSSIBREW®'s Lager and Pale were crowned the UK's best non-alcoholic beers at the 2023 World Beer Awards. Plus, the brand's commitment to quality is backed by extensive testing, including 52 randomised, double-blind, peer-reviewed studies, ensuring every sip meets high standards.
Next Steps in Sensory Research
New Analysis Tools
Cutting-edge sensory tools are reshaping how non-alcoholic beers are crafted. Devices like electronic noses and digital taste sensors can pick up even the smallest flavour differences, ensuring better quality and consistency. At IMPOSSIBREW®, these tools are used to track key aroma compounds, helping to maintain the beer's characteristic taste. With the help of AI and machine learning, large datasets are analysed to uncover patterns that improve flavour profiles and brewing techniques. This technology opens the door to creating tailored taste experiences.
Custom Taste Profiles
Advanced analysis tools have paved the way for crafting more precise taste profiles in non-alcoholic beers. IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ technology highlights how modern brewing can evolve by using carefully chosen botanical ingredients. This method builds on earlier work to mimic the sensory qualities of traditional beers, using custom blends to recreate familiar flavours while improving texture and mouthfeel through targeted adjustments.
Looking ahead, the focus in sensory research is on creating more personalised flavour experiences. Key areas of interest include:
- Developing seasonal flavours for specific occasions
- Adjusting taste profiles to match regional preferences
- Adding functional benefits without sacrificing flavour
Conclusion
Main Findings
Recent progress has improved the production of non-alcoholic beer, focusing on balancing aroma, taste, and texture. Advanced sensory tools, such as electronic systems, have played a key role in ensuring consistent flavour profiles across batches, significantly enhancing quality control.
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ technology is a standout example of how modern brewing techniques can replicate the sensory experience of traditional beers. By combining botanical ingredients with precise measurement methods, they’ve created non-alcoholic options that also offer additional perks.
These advancements provide a strong foundation for further exploration in the development of non-alcoholic beers.
Future Outlook
With these sensory improvements, the future of the industry looks promising as it adapts to shifting consumer preferences. Non-alcoholic beer production is evolving quickly, with new technologies enhancing taste and texture, opening doors to more personalised and enriched options.
Expected developments in the near future include:
- AI-Powered Sensory Mapping: Using artificial intelligence to fine-tune flavours with greater accuracy.
- Functional Additions: Introducing compounds that contribute to wellness without affecting the taste.
- Seasonal Offerings: Crafting limited-edition varieties to align with changing trends and tastes.
These ongoing refinements will bring non-alcoholic beers closer to the sensory qualities of traditional beers, while also expanding the range of creative beverage possibilities.
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What is IMPOSSIBREW®?
IMPOSSIBREW® is a pioneering non-alcoholic beer brand based in the UK that aims to create the world's most complete alcohol alternative using patent-pending technology.
Founded by Mark Wong in 2021 and working with some of the world's best professors, scientists and expert brewers, IMPOSSIBREW® specialises in expertly crafted non-alcoholic beers designed to match full ABV beers in both taste and feeling.
Product Range
IMPOSSIBREW® offers a range of enhanced non-alcoholic beers, including:
- Enhanced Lager (0.5% ABV)
- Enhanced Pale Ale (0.5% ABV)
- Limited Editions (Seasonal)
Key Benefits
The key feature that sets IMPOSSIBREW® apart is its proprietary "Social Blend™" - a combination of active botanical ingredients and nootropics using patent-pending technology* designed to recreate the relaxing effects of alcohol without the negative side effects.
Along with record-breaking quality flavour that comes from a unique process without removing alcohol.
Social Blend™ Ingredients
Developed with leading scientists in top UK universities, Social Blend™ includes:
- L-Theanine
- Ashwaghanda
- Soluble Plant Fibres
- Vitamin B1
- Various Plant Extracts.
These ingredients are chosen for their potential to boost serotonin, promote relaxation, and create a calming effect similar to the "one or two pint feeling" without hangovers.
See more details on our very own research paper, with over 1,000 participants:
- More than 70% said they felt relaxed after consuming IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 88% have reduced alcohol consumption since discovering IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 95% have told a friend about IMPOSSIBREW® after trying.
- 3/4 say that IMPOSSIBREW® is "the most complete alcohol alternative currently available on the market today".
Recognition
IMPOSSIBREW® has received several notable achievements:
- Featured on BBC's Dragons' Den
- Awarded the first and only Gold Medal in the No/Low beer category from the London Beer Competition
- Received multiple industry Gold awards in categories against Full-ABV beers
- Most followed No/Low Alcohol brand on TikTok globally.
Mission and Vision
IMPOSSIBREW® is on a mission to redefine non-alcoholic drinking by creating better-than-alcohol alternatives for those who love beer but want to avoid the health risks associated with alcohol consumption.
The company aims to become the global leading alcohol alternative brand, focusing on helping people transition to a healthier mode of relaxation without the traditional issues and side effects of alcohol.
Production and Ingredients
IMPOSSIBREW® combines traditional brewing methods with their proprietary Social Blend™ along with patent-pending technology*
The beers are made with traditional brewing ingredients such as water, malted barley, wheat, hops, and yeast, in addition to the Social Blend™ components - leveraging their unique cryogenic fermentation process, which means no alcohol is ever removed from the product - ensuring the most authentic quality taste you've come to expect.
Who is it for?
IMPOSSIBREW® caters to consumers who:
- Are busy professionals and parents who would like to unwind with a drink but don't want the hangovers.
- Enjoy the taste and relaxing experience of beer
- Are looking for healthier alternatives to alcohol, with lower calories, carbs and sugar
- Want to avoid hangovers and other negative effects of alcohol consumption
- Are interested in functional beverages with potential mood-enhancing properties
By offering a unique product that aims to replicate both the taste and feeling of alcoholic beer, IMPOSSIBREW® is positioning itself at the forefront of the growing non-alcoholic beverage market.
Get Started Today
Give it a try today with our Welcome Bundle and get 2 Free Beers with your first purchase. Get it delivered straight to your door, risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.
We hope you enjoy them as much as we do and we can't wait for you to try.
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
How does 'Social Blend™' work?
Social Blend™ is our proprietary alcohol alternative made from a blend of science-backed ingredients using patent-pending technology*.
Designed to replicate the sensory and social relaxing experience of drinking, minus the headaches (and bad decisions).
Developed with Dr Paul Chazot, Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University.
Key Components and Mechanisms
- L-Theanine:
- Ashwagandha Root:
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):
- Various nootropic herbs:
Benefits
- Relaxation: The blend promotes a state of relaxation without the sedative effects typically associated with alcohol.
- Mental Calm: By boosting alpha brain waves and serotonin levels, it helps maintain a calm and focused mental state.
- Stress Relief: The combination of L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, and Vitamin B1 helps mitigate stress and anxiety.
- Mood Enhancement: The inclusion these ingredients and other botanicals supports mood regulation and overall positive outlook.
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ is a carefully crafted combination of nootropic and adaptogenic ingredients designed to offer a relaxing and mood-enhancing experience without the drawbacks of alcohol. It leverages the natural properties of its components to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood, making it a unique alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
(Read our latest research paper here)
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
Do you ship overseas?
We ship to the UK Mainland for free when you spend over £35
We aim to expand internationally soon - stay tuned!
If you have any queries, feel free to email: hello(@)impossibrew.co.uk
How long will it take to get my orders?
For UK mainland deliveries, normal orders processed here will take 1-3 business days to arrive, with an optional upgrade to Next Day Delivery available (12pm cut-off).
Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.
How is 0.5% ABV alcohol-free?
Yes, we know it's confusing. Isn't 0.5% ABV still alcoholic? Officially, 0.5% ABV is classified as Dealcoholised.
- In fact, most things we consume daily have more than 0.5% ABV
- Burger Rolls - 1.2% ABV
- Orange Juice - 0.5% ABV
- Ripe Banana - 0.5% ABV
After more than 2 years of research, we've found that the 0.5% ABV from our natural brewing process significantly increases both flavour and mouthfeel - without spiking your blood alcohol level (BAC).
Is it really gluten-free?
Yes, IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Lager is gluten-free. Even though it contains wheat and barley, our beers have been third-party tested to contain less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of gluten, which meets the criteria to be listed as, and labeled gluten-free.
Does it have alcohol tax?
No. While it is true that our beers don't contain alcohol, and thus don't incur UK alcohol duty, we'd like to highlight some factors here that might be helpful in reflecting the value we provide.
- One-to-One Brewing Process: At IMPOSSIBREW, we take pride in our unique brewing techniques. Unlike other non-alcoholic beers, our products are never diluted, watered-down, or have their alcohol content removed - and some even dilute their alcoholic beers up to 5x. This means that our brewing process involves the same level of craftsmanship, time, and resources as a traditional craft beer, resulting in comparable production costs.
- Effective Nootropics: In our commitment to creating the most relaxing non-alcoholic beers, we utilise only the highest quality nootropics as our active ingredients, in safe and effectives dosages. At current alcohol tax rates for a 5% ABV beer, the cost of our nootropics more than double that. Instead of contributing the amounts as tax, why not have it contribute to the product quality itself?
- Small Scale Brewing: Currently, we operate on a smaller scale, which makes us less competitive than large, commercial brewers (often +10,000x our brewing size). As a growing business, we are passionate about our mission to create unique, high-quality non-alcoholic experiences, and we truly appreciate your support. As we continue to grow and expand our production capabilities, we look forward to passing on even more savings to our valued community!
At IMPOSSIBREW, we prioritise offering our customers an enhanced, premium, non-alcoholic beer experience by combining innovative brewing techniques, quality active nootropic ingredients, and award-winning taste. While our pricing may differ from other non-alcoholic competitors, we believe that the value proposition and unique experience our beers provide are well worth it.
At the end of the day, tasting is believing. So give it a try and let us know what you think - risk-free with our IMPOSSIBREW® Guarantee.
Who shouldn't drink IMPOSSIBREW®?
It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with certain medical conditions like GI disorders or hypertension, or individuals taking specific medications such as antidepressants or blood thinners. If you fall into any of these categories, it's best to consult with your doctor first.
Ashwagandha can lead to overstimulation (i.e. restlessness) if taken alongside thyroid medication.
What is your philosophy?
For thousands of years, we had only one way to unwind together. One way to let our guards down. One way to bridge the gap between who we are and who we are with others.
Not because it was perfect. But because it was all we had.
We decided that wasn't good enough.
We exist because we believe in a world where social connection doesn't demand compromise.
Where being present with others doesn't mean being absent from yourself. Where letting go doesn't mean losing control.This isn't about removing alcohol. This is about something better.
Our Social Blend™ technology isn't an accident. It's the result of questioning everything we thought we knew about social drinking. About working with scientists to understand what we're really seeking in these moments of connection. About daring to imagine something that wasn't possible before.
We believe the greatest innovations don't just solve problems - they change how we live. They make us question why we ever settled for less.
That's what we're building. Not just a drink, but a new way forward. A future where social connection comes without compromise. Where tradition meets innovation. Where science meets ritual.
This is the future of social drinking.
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Our customer support is available Monday to Friday: 9am - 5:30pm.
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