Low-alcohol beers have finally shed their bad rep thanks to a league of indie breweries which have created flavour-forward versions that don’t lack the refreshing punch we crave from the first sip.
Louise Treseder of Driftwood Spars Brewery in St Agnes shares her favourite no-compromise beers for barbecue season
Blue Horizon, Harbour Brewing Co.
Here in Cornwall, Harbour Brewing Co.‘s Blue Horizon is a great IPA with soft stone-fruit flavours. It has lactose to add body and a sweet tropical aroma and citrus bite for a refreshing hit.
Off Piste, Big Drop Brewing Co.
At Big Drop Brewing Co., an Ipswich brewery established in 2016, all the beers are alcohol free and some are vegan. You can get any style of beer you want from these guys. The Coconut Stout sounds delicious but for now I’m going with Off Piste, a hazelnut porter full of chocolate with a moreish hazelnut finish. Very indulgent.
Clear Head, Bristol Beer Factory
Clear Head is crafted by Bristol Beer Factory which has long been one of my favourite breweries. The beer is brewed in conjunction with charity Talk Club which promotes positive mental health. Added lactose makes it smooth and creamy, while the US hops provide sharp citrus, apple and stone-fruit flavours.
Virgin Mary, Ilkley Brewery
I love a good Yorkshire beer and Virgin Mary by Ilkley Brewery is a cracker. It’s pale in colour and flavoured with citrus hops from the USA and New Zealand. It’s full bodied and delicious.
Ghost Ship, Adnams
Having been broadsided a few times by Adnams‘ beer, I was keen to try Ghost Ship, a low alcohol version of its pale citrus 4.5 per cent beer of the same name. The alcohol is removed by reverse osmosis, leaving a clear and bright pint.
Like 5 of the best low-alcohol beers? Get stuck in to our top five beers by post.
