Founders Brewing Co. has announced the launch of Nonetheless, its first family of non-alcoholic beers, with the initial release named Nonetheless Golden. The brewery says the product is brewed using the same processes and quality standards it applies to its alcoholic beers, and is intended to offer a beer-like drinking experience while containing less than 0.5% ABV and 30 calories.
Product and Flavor Profile
Nonetheless Golden is described as a lager-inspired, golden-colored non-alcoholic beer with a crisp, balanced profile. The tasting notes provided emphasize smooth bready malt, citrusy hop character, moderate sweetness, a touch of bitterness and a crisp finish.
The product is positioned as a low-calorie alternative intended to deliver recognizable beer flavors rather than simply being defined by its lack of alcohol. Packaging visuals in the announcement show 12-ounce cans and a six-pack carrier for retail distribution.
Brewing Process and Positioning
Founders states Nonetheless is brewed “just like one,” using the time-honored brewing methods and quality ingredients the company has used since 1997. The brewery frames the release as an effort to bring Founders’ craft brewing approach and flavor focus into the non-alcoholic category.
The launch is tied to Mahou USA’s broader strategy to expand offerings beyond traditional beer; Mahou USA, which combines legacy U.S. craft brands with Mahou San Miguel’s international operations, presents Nonetheless as part of that larger positioning. Founders leadership has emphasized maintaining flavor integrity and quality in the N/A iteration.
Availability and Distribution
Nonetheless Golden will be sold in six packs of 12-ounce cans, with initial availability in select markets beginning in December 2025. Founders plans a wider, nationwide rollout throughout 2026, starting in January to align with consumer interest during Dry January.
Retail rollout timing and market selection follow the company’s stated plan to expand distribution over several months. The announcement indicates the product will be gradually introduced to more stores and on-premise accounts as distribution expands.
Company Background and Market Context
Founders Brewing Co. has been producing craft beer in Grand Rapids, Michigan since 1997 and is regarded as one of the larger U.S. craft breweries. The company operates a Grand Rapids taproom and highlights its history of craft brewing alongside community involvement.
Mahou USA, the North American division of Madrid-based Mahou San Miguel, has been involved with Founders since a 2014 partnership and formally combined a set of U.S. craft brands into Mahou USA in 2023. The organization notes its position among the country’s larger craft-brewery groups and cites awards and consumer recognition for its brands.
What This Means For NA Beer Observers
The release of Nonetheless underscores a broader industry focus on expanding high-quality non-alcoholic options that aim to replicate beer-like flavor. Founders presents the product as addressing growing consumer demand for non-alcoholic beverages made with craft brewing techniques, and its rollout timeline targets a seasonal moment—Dry January—when interest in N/A beers typically increases.
For readers tracking the non-alcoholic beer segment, the Founders announcement adds a major craft-branded entry that combines established brewing credentials with a planned national distribution push. Observers should watch how trade and retail placements unfold in the coming months and how consumers respond to a Founders-branded N/A lager-style offering.
