Central California’s Firestone Walker Brewing has just made waves in the non-alcoholic beer market. Known for their iconic 805 Beer line, Firestone Walker has introduced 8ZERO5, their first-ever non-alcoholic blonde ale. Crafted with the same care and flavor that put 805 Beer on the map, 8ZERO5 is already positioning itself as a standout in the non-alcoholic beer space.
With less than 0.5% ABV and only 60 calories, 8ZERO5 is designed for those who love beer but want an option for times when alcohol isn’t part of the equation. Whether you’re pivoting to a healthier lifestyle or simply looking for an alternative for your next paddleboarding session or post-gym cooldown, Firestone Walker hopes that 8ZERO5 will become your go-to.
Redefining Non-Alcoholic Beer
The introduction of 8ZERO5 is not just another addition to the Firestone Walker lineup—it’s a carefully crafted response to changing consumer demands. According to Dustin Hinz, Chief Marketing Officer for Firestone Walker, the focus was on creating a non-alcoholic beer that doesn’t compromise on flavor or enjoyment.
“We believe that just because a beer is non-alcoholic, it doesn’t mean it should be any less satisfying,” Hinz shared. “With 8ZERO5, we’re thrilled to offer our fans, drinkers, and athletes an 805 Beer for the non-alcohol occasion.”
This focus on delivering a full-flavored experience stems from over a decade of analyzing the success of 805 Beer. Under the leadership of acclaimed Brewmaster Matt Brynildson, the 8ZERO5 recipe was meticulously developed over two years. Brynildson’s team aimed to replicate the refreshing and easy-drinking profile that makes 805 Blonde Ale a favorite across California and beyond.
What Makes 8ZERO5 Stand Out?
Staying True to Its Roots
One of the key goals in creating 8ZERO5 was to mirror the qualities that have won 805 Blonde Ale its loyal following. While it operates in the non-alcoholic category, 8ZERO5 is designed to deliver the same taste and texture beer drinkers expect from the 805 brand.
Athlete-Tested and Approved
Firestone Walker enlisted a unique group of testers during 8ZERO5’s development—their own roster of sponsored athletes. These individuals, accustomed to high-performance and active lifestyles, provided feedback that helped hone the beer’s flavor and drinkability while maintaining its non-alcoholic appeal.
Low-Calorie, Guilt-Free Enjoyment
With just 60 calories per serving, 8ZERO5 appeals to those who are mindful of their health and calorie intake yet still want to enjoy the rich flavors of a quality beer. This combination of low ABV and low calories makes it an ideal option for beer lovers seeking balance.
Craft Quality in Every Sip
When it comes to craft beer, flavor is everything—and Firestone Walker delivers. From the premium ingredients to the brewing expertise of Matt Brynildson and his team, 8ZERO5 promises to hold its ground against competitors in the growing non-alcoholic space.
A Prolific Legacy in Brewing
The launch of 8ZERO5 is the latest milestone in Firestone Walker Brewing’s incredible story. Founded in 1996 by brothers-in-law Adam Firestone and David Walker, the brewery has grown to become a powerhouse in the craft beer industry. With its main brewery in Paso Robles, the brand also operates the Barrelworks wild ale cellar in Santa Barbara County and the Propagator R&D brewhouse in Venice.
Firestone Walker is celebrated not just for its core lineup but also for its adventurous brews, such as the Mind Haze hazy IPA and the Vintage Series of barrel-aged ales. Recognition like “Best American Brewery of the Decade” from Paste Magazine underscores their ongoing influence on the craft beer scene.
Joining the Non-Alcoholic Movement
The non-alcoholic beer market is booming. According to industry reports, the global non-alcoholic beer market is expected to reach $40 billion by 2032. With more consumers seeking alternatives to traditional beer that align with wellness trends, drinkers are no longer willing to compromise on flavor or quality.
Firestone Walker’s entry into this market with 8ZERO5 places them in direct competition with brands like Athletic Brewing and Heineken 0.0. Still, their attention to detail, backed by years of brewing expertise, offers something distinct—a non-alcoholic beer that stays true to its craft roots.
Brynildson is confident about its potential:
“We’ve got something here that can compete with anything in the non-alcoholic space, and I’m pretty stoked about it.”
What Does 8ZERO5 Mean for Beer Lovers?
For those who already love Firestone Walker’s 805 lineup, 8ZERO5 opens up exciting new drinking occasions. Whether you’re cutting alcohol for a day, a month, or permanently, this non-alcoholic option means you won’t have to miss out on that refreshing, easy-drinking experience.
Beer enthusiasts who are skeptical about non-alcoholic options might find a pleasant surprise in 8ZERO5’s dedication to mimicking the quality of its alcoholic counterpart. With the rising acceptance of non-alcoholic beers, it’s clear that these beverages are no longer an afterthought for breweries.
Firestone Walker Brewing is known for setting the standard in craft beer, and their latest venture with 8ZERO5 is no exception. This non-alcoholic blonde ale is proof that great beer goes beyond alcohol content—it’s about flavor, craftsmanship, and experience.
Congratulations to Firestone Walker for breaking into the non-alcoholic market with a product that serves both craft beer lovers and those looking to elevate their sober beer experiences. 8ZERO5 is a refreshing reminder that there doesn’t need to be a compromise between taste and lifestyle.
Craving a taste of 8ZERO5? Visit FirestoneWalker.com to locate a pint near you!