Free Spirits Bourbon is a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative built for cocktails, with notes of toasted oak, caramel, vanilla and baking spice, followed by black pepper and a touch of smoky oak.
Capsaicin recreates some of the warmth normally provided by alcohol, giving the finish a noticeable bit of heat. Because of that, we don't necessarily treat it as a 1:1 bourbon replacement. Play with the proportions and let citrus, sweetness, bitters and dilution find the balance. Once you hit that sweet spot, it makes a remarkably convincing bourbon-style cocktail.
Free Spirits Bourbon is vegan and gluten-free and contains vitamins B3, B6 and B12. It was also named Non-Alcoholic Spirit of the Year at the 2024 Bartender Spirits Awards.
Why We Love It
Free Spirits Bourbon knows exactly what it wants to be: a cocktail bourbon. The oak, vanilla, caramel and subtle smoke create a familiar foundation, while the capsaicin supplies something many non-alcoholic whiskeys struggle to deliver: warmth.
We find it shines brightest when it's balanced rather than poured heavy-handed. Use just enough to create that bourbon-like backbone and warming finish, and it makes wonderfully convincing whiskey cocktails.
Try it with an Old Fashioned. Combine 1½ oz Free Spirits Bourbon, ¼ oz rich simple syrup and 3 dashes of All The Bitter Aromatic Bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir well and strain over a large cube. Finish with a wide orange peel.
We intentionally use a slightly smaller pour than you might with traditional bourbon. It lets the capsaicin contribute warmth without taking over the cocktail, while the bitters deepen the oak and baking spice.
Especially good with barbecue, smoked meats, sharp cheddar, roasted nuts, caramelized onions, pecan pie, apple desserts and dark chocolate.
