BY JAMES NEVISON
It’s time to see the light! Serious, surging interest in lighter, lower-alcohol and non-alcoholic beers has led to seriously good taste. Join the light beer movement. The statistics back up the reality that casual observation suggests: light and non-alcoholic beers are everywhere these days. More consumers are opting for mindful lower-sugar and low-carb beverage options, and sales of non-alcoholic beverages are seeing double-digit growth year over year. This is particularly the case with beer. The increased popularity has led to a bounty of new products, making it a great time to wade into the world of light, lighter and non-alcoholic beers.
A Word on Lagers These days, “light” beer doesn’t have to mean lower-than-typical alcohol levels. Choosing more traditional 4 to 5 percent ABV lagers and pilsners over 6 to 7 percent ABV hazy IPAs, for example, makes particular sense given their prowess for pairing with the warmer seasons ahead. As opposed to top-fermented ales, lagers are bottom fermented with yeast strains that prefer cooler temperatures. This process tends to lead to a lighter-bodied beer overall, which helps amp up the lip-smacking sensibilities. Add a smattering of hops to the brewing process, and the flavour factor turns up another notch. This combination works well when the focus turns to longer sunlit days and outdoor gatherings, not to mention the accompanying picnics and backyard cookouts. Whether smokies and pulled pork sandwiches or a bucket of takeout fried chicken is on the menu, a crisp lager is ready to cut through any richness and smoky flavours.
Fuggles Force Lager $1.99 BC Craft 375739 473 ml Crisp and clean—in other words, everything one looks for in a straightforward lager
Vancouver Island Islander Lager
Michelob Ultra $38.99 Canada 723075 18 × 355 ml
$2.69 BC Craft 300895 473 ml
Sporting low calories (90) and carbs (3 g), this light golden lager makes for fun, fresh sipping—with or without sports streaming in the background!
This bright golden lager wafts cereal and citrus aromas while bringing both good texture and lip-smacking crispness followed by a fresh finish.
ready to take on everyday meals and gatherings.
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