With only 2.6 grams of carbs, 96 calories and 4.2 percent ABV, there is no beer more associated with the “post-workout beer” than Michelob Ultra. It’s taken America by storm since it was introduced by Anheuser-Busch in 2002 and is now America’s third most popular beer (behind Bud Light and Coors Light). It can be found just about everywhere and, taste-wise, it’s just a middle-of-the-road light lager. But while some might argue Mich Ultra’s appeal is its lack of flavor and body, I’d point out that you don’t have to settle for a bland beer for the sake of health concerns.
These days, craft breweries have taken notice of Michelob Ultra’s success and determined they can do better beers for calorie counters. Here are three light, crushable beers to try.
Dogfish Head Brewery Slightly Mighty
Style: Session IPA
ABV: 4%
Calories: 95
Carbs: 3.6 grams
Availability: Year-round, nationwide
The Malt Reducer: One of the biggest issues with packing flavor into a low-calorie and low-carb beer is that the typical flavor-producing ingredients tend to increase the calories and carbs of the beer. So Sam Caligione of Dogfish Head Brewery took a different approach for the base of Slightly Mighty: monk fruit. Monk fruit creates body without adding calories. This reduced malt bill removes unnecessary unfermentable sugars, cutting down on carbs and calories further. The monk fruit base also amplifies the tropical notes of the beer while providing a good foundation for the hop character to come through. The result is a golden, light IPA that beer lovers can appreciate and light beer drinkers can get on board with.
