Low Calorie IPA: Greatest Guilt-Free Brews [Spectacular Taste Test]

Who says you can’t have your beer and drink it too? For those looking for a lighter option without compromising on taste, low-calorie IPAs have taken the craft beer world by storm.

We conducted a blind taste test of six different IPAs to find the perfect low-calorie IPA that tickles your taste buds while keeping your waistline in check.

Short Summary

• Discover the best of craft beer with delicious, low-calorie IPAs.
• Innovative brewing techniques create flavorful and health conscious beers without sacrificing taste.
• Enjoy a variety of health benefits while sipping on refreshing regional IPAs.

Tasting the Top Low-Calorie IPAs

The world of low-calorie IPAs is vast, but we’ve narrowed it down to the crème de la crème:

• Deschutes Wowza!
• Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty
• Firestone Walker Flyjack
• Sixpoint Trail Haze

Each of these IPAs offers a unique flavor profile, staying true to the craft beer experience while cutting down on calories.

Let’s dive into the intricate flavors of these thirst-quenching brews, including the unique hearted ale.

Deschutes Wowza!

Deschutes Wowza! is a standout IPA that delivers a delightful zingy flavor with a subtle tartness. With only 100 calories and 4% ABV, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a lighter beer without sacrificing flavor.

The vibrant lime, melon, and a hint of mango flavors are derived from centennial hops and chicory root, adding a unique twist to this low-calorie beer.

The chicory root in Deschutes Wowza! Not only contributes to its deliciously semi-sweet taste, but also sets it apart from other low-calorie IPAs. Whether you’re a hop lover or simply looking for a refreshing craft beer experience, Deschutes Wowza! Your taste buds will crave more.

Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty

If you’re in search of a remarkably balanced low-calorie IPA, look no further than Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty. This IPA boasts delightful tropical flavors from citra hops and natural sweeteners, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a lighter option.

With only 95 calories per 12-ounce serving and a 4% ABV, this IPA is perfect for those looking to cut down on calorie intake without compromising taste.

What sets Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty apart is its use of monk fruit, a zero-calorie sweetener that adds a delightful touch of sweetness to the beer.

The combination of citra hops and monk fruit results in a beer that’s bursting with tropical fruit flavors, while still maintaining a crisp, refreshing finish.

Slightly Mighty is proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for fewer calories.

Firestone Walker Flyjack

Firestone Walker Flyjack is a refreshing low-calorie IPA with an intense tropical fruit aroma and minimal chalky or papery flavors. At just 96 calories and 4.0% ABV, this beer provides a lighter option for those looking for a flavorful, yet low-calorie IPA.

The delightful blend of tangerine and strawberry flavors in Firestone Walker Flyjack, combined with a refreshing, bitter aftertaste, sets it apart from other low-calorie IPAs.

Its crisp, clean finish makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a satisfying beer that won’t weigh them down.

Sixpoint Trail Haze

Designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, Sixpoint Trail Haze is a light-bodied, low-calorie IPA that’s perfect for sipping during your next adventure.

With only 99 calories and a 4% ABV, this hazy New England-style IPA offers a fantastic option for those seeking a lighter beer without compromising on taste.

Sixpoint Trail is on the Sixpoint Trail. Haze features peach and pear flavors, providing a delightful fruity twist to the traditional IPA profile.

Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a day at the park, this low-calorie IPA is a refreshing and flavorful companion for your outdoor activities.

The Science Behind Low-Calorie IPAs

Wondering how these low-calorie IPAs manage to maintain their fantastic flavors while cutting down on calories? It all comes down to innovative brewing techniques, such as reducing carbohydrates, diluting beer with water, and using enzymes to convert starches into sugar.

Let’s take a closer look at these methods and how they contribute to creating the perfect low-calorie IPA.

Reducing Carbohydrates

Lowering the carbohydrate content in low-calorie IPAs is one way to reduce the overall calorie count, making these beers a more health-conscious option.

This can be achieved by using different types of grains or enzymes during the brewing process, resulting in a beer with a lower carbohydrate content and ultimately fewer calories.

By focusing on reducing carbohydrates, brewers can create a light-bodied IPA that still packs a flavorful punch, similar to a light lager.

Dilution and Enzymes

Another method for creating a low-calorie IPA is diluting the beer with water, reducing the alcohol content and overall calorie count. Brewers can also utilize enzymes, such as pullulanase, to break down complex sugars into simpler ones that are easier to ferment.

These techniques allow for the creation of a low-calorie IPA that still maintains a full-bodied flavor and satisfying drinking experience, proving that it’s possible to have the best of both worlds.

By using these methods, brewers can create a low-calorie IPA that still has the very low final gravity desired for a refreshing and satisfying drink.

Pairing Your Low-Calorie IPA With Food

Low-calorie IPAs aren’t just great on their own – they also make for fantastic pairings with a variety of foods. The light, crisp nature of these beers complements a wide range of dishes, enhancing the flavors and creating a harmonious dining experience.

Consider pairing your low-calorie IPA with seafood, Thai and Mexican cuisine, or even desserts with tropical flavors.

The citrusy, fruity notes of these beers work exceptionally well with sharp cheddar cheese, blue cheese, and Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses, adding an extra dimension to your cheese board.

With their refreshing taste and lower calorie content, low-calorie IPAs can elevate any meal while keeping your health goals in check.

Brewing Innovations in Low-Calorie IPAs

As the demand for low-calorie IPAs continues to grow, brewers are constantly exploring new techniques and ingredients to create beers that are both flavorful and health-conscious.

Some of these innovations include using specific ingredients like wheat and oats to create a fuller body in low-calorie IPAs, leading to a more enjoyable drinking experience with wheat beers.

Brewers are also experimenting with lower ABV percentages to offer a full-bodied flavor with fewer calories. Additionally, they are incorporating new brewing techniques, such as adding enzymes to break down carbohydrates, diluting the beer with water, and using low-calorie adjuncts like rice and corn.

These brewing innovations are pushing the boundaries of what low-calorie IPAs and low-calorie beers can offer, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for a healthier option.

Regional Low-Calorie IPAs Worth Trying

In addition to our top four low-calorie IPAs, there are plenty of regional options worth exploring, such as Victory Easy Ringer, Summit Triumphant, and Harpoon Rec League.

Each of these beers offers unique flavors and characteristics that showcase the diversity and creativity found in the world of low-calorie IPAs, making them contenders for the title of best low calorie IPA.

These light beer options are perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful beer without the extra calories.

Victory Easy Ringer

Victory Easy Ringer is a low-calorie IPA that features a delightful combination of citrus, pine, mild berries, and passionfruit flavors. This beer has a light ABV of 4.3%, making it a refreshing option for those looking to cut down on calorie intake without losing out on taste, similar to Bell’s Light Hearted.

The unique blend of flavors in Victory Easy Ringer stems from the use of citra and cascade hops, which provide a balanced and enjoyable drinking experience.

With its refreshing taste and low-calorie content, Victory Easy Ringer is an excellent choice for those seeking a lighter option.

Summit Triumphant

Summit Triumphant is a low-calorie hazy IPA that offers a toasty barley base and experimental hops, reminiscent of classic American pale ales. With its delightful blend of tropical notes, including pineapple, grapefruit, and apricot, Summit Triumphant provides a unique and enjoyable drinking experience.

Not only is Summit Triumphant a delicious beer, but it’s also a great choice for those seeking a healthier option, as it is a low-calorie, low-carb session IPA. Its combination of traditional and experimental hops, as well as a toasty barley base, creates an exceptional flavor that’s perfect for both casual drinkers and craft beer enthusiasts alike.

Harpoon Rec League

Harpoon Rec. League stands out among low-calorie IPAs with its refreshing and unique blend of ingredients, including hops, sea salt, buckwheat, and chia seeds.

This hazy pale ale style beer, brewed by Harpoon Brewery & Beer Hall in Boston, MA, boasts a citrusy hop flavor and aroma, making it a fantastic choice for a light and healthy beverage.

With a modest 3.8% ABV and just 120 calories per serving, Harpoon Rec League is an excellent option for those looking for a low-alcohol, low-calorie beer that doesn’t compromise on taste. Its unique combination of ingredients and refreshing flavor profile make it a must-try for anyone seeking a lighter beer option.

The Health Benefits of Low-Calorie IPAs

While it’s important to always drink responsibly, low-calorie IPAs can offer some potential health benefits. These beers are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, magnesium, and potassium.

Studies have even suggested that moderate beer consumption may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Furthermore, the hops content in beer may help protect your liver from the negative effects of alcohol. By choosing a low-calorie IPA, you’re not only cutting down on your calories intake, but you’re also potentially reaping some health benefits from your beverage choice.

Summary

In conclusion, low-calorie IPAs offer a fantastic alternative for those seeking a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

From our blind taste test featuring Deschutes Wowza!, Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty, Firestone Walker Flyjack, and Sixpoint Trail Haze, to regional favorites like Victory Easy Ringer, Summit Triumphant, and Harpoon Rec League, there’s a low-calorie IPA out there for every palate.

So go ahead and indulge in a guilt-free beer experience – cheers to your health!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories in a 7% ABV IPA?

When it comes to IPAs, you can expect to find around 126 calories in a 7% ABV beer.

What is the lowest calorie beer?

It’s clear that mass produced low calorie beers are the best option for those looking for a light beer. With the lowest calories per bottle, they’re perfect for those wanting to enjoy a cold one without all the extra calories.

Do IPAs have less calories than beer?

IPAs definitely have more calories than regular beer. In fact, a 340ml IPA can contain up to 300 calories compared to a regular beer with only 155 calories per serving. This means IPAs contain almost double the amount of calories of non-IPA beers.

So if you’re watching your calorie intake, go for a regular beer instead!

How many calories are in a low Cal IPA?

Good news for beer lovers – low calorie IPAs are a great way to enjoy your favorite brew while still keeping an eye on the calories.

Many new IPAs on the market offer great flavor with less than 100 calories for 12 ounces, making it an ideal choice for those looking to watch their caloric intake.

How many calories in ipa beer?

Are you an IPA drinker? Great news: the average IPA beer contains 180 to 200 calories in just 12 ounces. That’s actually lower than many other beer varieties, so you can enjoy your IPA with confidence.