The best low- and no-alcohol drinks to serve with dinner this Christmas

Fortnum & Mason’s sparkling tea

While some companies are investing in new tech to develop better low ABV serves, others are sticking to what they know best. Fortnum & Mason has gone for the latter, having launched a range of alcoholic sparkling teas packaged in the manner of a bottle of fizz.

Although other brands have been reluctant to confirm that their products are designed to offer an alternative to wine with dinner, that is exactly what these are for, according to the high end retailer. Ranging from 0% to 5% ABV, even the strongest teas far lighter than your typical vino, so an ideal option for those who are simply looking to cut back on the booze, as opposed to cut it out altogether.

“Each bottle offers the same complexity as wine,” according to a statement from F&M, which also says there are up to 13 varieties of tea used in the blend for each bottle, to “mirror the effect usually created by grapes and fermentation.”

Fortnum & Mason has even helpfully supplied food pairing suggestions of its own for each variant.

Copenhagen Sparkling ‘Blue’ Tea (0% ABV) has a nose of honeysuckle, citrus and tropical fruit, with a palate of jasmine, white flowers, white tea and green apple fruit, as well as a “clean, fresh finish.” Pair with delicate dishes, sushi and soft cheeses.

Copenhagen Sparkling ‘Red’ Tea (4% ABV) is a bit headier, with red berry fruits and raspberry leaf on the nose, and a “beautifully balanced palate of earthy Assam and baked red apple.”

F&M say this option is a “great alternative to a ‘normal’ sparkling rose.” Serve as an aperitif with light starters or with rich desserts, especially those made with ginger, spice and dark sugar.

And then finally, the Copenhagen Sparkling ‘Green’ (5% ABV) has nectarine and herbal notes on the nose, with a palate of peach and a touch of mint. The retailer suggests pairing with savoury hors d’oeuvres and smoked fish.

Price: £16-£18

Find it here.