EU Court of Justice Rules Non-Alcoholic Drinks Cannot Be Called Gin
On November 13, 2025, the EU Court of Justice in Luxembourg issued a ruling stating that non-alcoholic drinks cannot be marketed as gin. The court clarified that only spirits based on ethyl alcohol flavored by juniper with a minimum alcoholic strength of 37.5% by volume may legally be called gin.
The case was brought by the German association Verband Sozialer Wettbewerb against PB Vi Goods over their product Virgin Gin Alkoholfrei. The court held that the use of the term "non-alcoholic gin" is prohibited under EU law, and that the inclusion of "non-alcoholic" in the product’s legal name does not make it compliant.
The ruling cited EU Regulation (2019), which aims to protect consumers, prevent deceptive practices, ensure fair competition, and safeguard the international reputation of the EU's spirit-drinks. The decision is seen as a potential setback for the fast-growing alcohol-free drinks market in the EU.
PB Vi Goods did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the ruling.
