Sentia Gaba Spirit was formulated by Professor David Nutt, an expert on brain chemistry and how substances affect it, as a safe and functional alternative to alcohol. Nutt was infamously sacked from a government advisory role in 2009 after his research report 'The Journal of Psychopharmacology' determined alcohol (as well as other harmful substances) more damaging and addictive than cannabis or ecstasy. Professor Nutt has long been an authority on alcohol abuse, so it only stands to reason that he use this scientific knowhow to create a drink that has a similar neurochemical effect of 'that first drink sweet spot' but without any of the negative consequences first drinks can lead to.
With a focus on science, it does feel the same attention hasn't been given to flavour. I have a broad palate but admit that some may find these an acquired taste.
Sentia Red looks and smells like mulled wine. Drank neat, it is potently perfumed and has predominant flavors of redcurrant, cinnamon and pepper. You need to find the right mixer for these drinks. Topped up with just with tonic, it's a woody berry muddle. Mixed with fresh orange, it was reminiscent of sangria. With sparking grape and rhubarb juice was probably the best iteration. I know I shouldn't be buzz chasing but I didn't feel any different afterwards.
Score: 3 out of 5
Sentia Black is my favourite of the two. It has a deep spicy aroma and a complex herbaceous flavour with a liquorice base and peppery aftertaste I enjoy. This goes well with ginger ale for added kick. I immediately get a warm fuzzy feeling when I drink this, so it is a very good booze alternative for me. But a word of warning: it is not everyone's cup of tea. A friend wrinkled her nose in disdain when she had a whiff of my glass, so it is a question of personal preference.
Score: 4 out of 5
Sentia is expensive - £16 for 20cl or £30 for 50cl - but I guess you're paying for the research and development behind a scientifically-proven, one of a kind product.