Yep, a common topic. And one that always yields varying opinions.
My own 2 cents: I wouldn't touch fake beer or wine with a 10-foot pole. One of the first pieces of advice I read here was that they make us nostalgic for the real thing. And that nostalgia can take us places we don't want to go -- to the real thing. Made sense to me.
In sobriety, I've found it helpful to build entirely new habits. Sparkling mineral water with cranberry is a favorite if I'm out, as is ginger beer with a twist of lime. I've also enjoyed trying new teas.
It's been a helpful tactic in achieving sobriety and maintaining recovery. I can see the three-year mark on the horizon so it's a tip I'm always happy to share with others as they work to change their lives.