As we turn the calendar to January, many of us turn to fresh starts, new habits, and, for some, the tradition of Dry January (or as we prefer…‘damp’ January). While beer in and of itself is considered the drink of moderation, many folks choose to explore lower alcohol alternatives around the start of the new year.
Whether you’re cutting back on alcohol entirely or just looking to explore the world of lower-alcohol alternatives, there’s no need to compromise on flavor or craftsmanship. The 2024 Canada Beer Cup showcased some incredible low and no-alcohol beers that are redefining what it means to enjoy a lighter brew.
The Rise of Low-No Alcohol Beers
The low and no-alcohol beer category has come a long way in recent years, and at Canada Beer Cup, we’ve seen the growth in these categories year over year. Modern brewing techniques have allowed brewers to craft beverages that retain all the complexity and character of traditional beers, without the higher alcohol content. This evolution has resonated with beer lovers seeking moderation without sacrificing taste.
Standout Winners from the 2024 Canada Beer Cup
This year’s competition celebrated a variety of standout low and no-alcohol beers from breweries across Canada. If you’re stocking your fridge on low alcohol alternatives, here’s a few we recommend.
Note: A bonus perk of non-alcoholic beer is that in many cases, it is available to be shipped Canada-wide due to the fact that the brews do not contain alcohol.
1. Tous Les Jours – Gold Crown Winner (3.2% ABV)
Dageraad Brewing – Burnaby, BC
Hailing from Burnaby’s Belgian-style beer hub Dageraad Brewing, this low-alcohol Saison is everything you could wish for in a table beer. With Belgian esters and citrus zest, Tous Les Jours was dreamed up as an easy-sipping beer with ample carbonation. In the spirit of its name, this beer can certainly be enjoyed daily!
2. Ultralight IPA – Silver Crown Winner (2.9% ABV)
Four Winds Brewing – Delta, BC
Crafted in Delta, this low-alcohol IPA proves that big hop flavors can come in small ABVs. With bold notes of tropical fruit and a well-balanced bitterness, it’s an excellent choice for hop heads looking to pace themselves. At 2.9%, it might be moderate, but its juicy flavours are no compromise!
3. Discipline – Bronze Crown Winner (0.5% ABV)
Siboire – Quebec, QC
Siboire advocates for a healthy, active, and balanced lifestyle. That’s why they developed Discipline, an IPA-style beer brewed especially for those moments when your life and body demand maximum efficiency, without you having to deprive yourself of the pleasure of sharing a good beer with friends!
4. Na Guava Gose – Gold Crown Winner (0.4% ABV)
Collective Arts Brewing – Hamilton, ON
All the tart, fruity flavour of Guava Gose, minus the alcohol! It’s a take on everyone’s favourite tropical vacation in a can. The base Gose has a balanced lemony tartness from the presence of malted wheat, Himalayan pink sea salt, and coriander with a flowery bright smoothness from guava. The end result is a perfect non-alc balance of tart, sweet, and sour, leaving you refreshed and wanting more.
5. Lug Lite – Gold Crown Winner (4% ABV)
Beau’s All Natural Brewing Co. – Vankleek Hill, ON
Looking for a craft lager that hits all the notes? Beau’s Lug Light is a clean lager with all-natural ingredients. With a simple, clean taste and just 4% ABV, this light lager truly delivers.
6. BBNOALC – Silver Crown Winner (0.5% ABV)
Four Winds Brewing Co. – Delta, BC
BBNOALC is a light and spritzy non-alcoholic sour ale packed with fruit notes that still hits like any other sour beer would. This tasty sour pulled off a silver crown at the 2024 Canada Beer Cup and just might be the perfect way to kick off 2025.
7. Blue Mountain Light Lager – Silver Crown Winner (4% ABV)
Thornbury Craft Co. – Thornbury, ON
Looking for a lager that’s clean, dry, and refreshing? Blue Mountain Light Lager is inspired by the morning sun that rises over Georgian Bay. Made from the purest drinking water in North America, Blue Mountain Light Lager brings the taste of the Blue Mountains.
8. Gold – Bronze Crown Winner (4.2% ABV)
Anderson Craft Ales – London, ON
Gold is an award-winning brew and as close to a classic, crisp beer as you can get with Anderson. With a short finish leaving a very short aftertaste, it’s an easy drinking beer. Try pairing it with almost anything – the low flavour profile and body allows for a great complement to any dish.
Tips for Enjoying Low-No Alcohol Beers
- Pair with Complementary Foods: Experiment with food pairings to elevate your experience. A hoppy low-alcohol IPA complements spicy dishes, while a malty zero-alcohol amber pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or hearty stews.
- Serve at the Right Temperature: Just like traditional beers, serving temperatures matter. Follow the brewery’s recommendations to bring out the best flavours.
- Support Local Brewers: Seek out independent, Canadian craft breweries making low-no alcohol options. It’s a great way to support your community and discover unique flavors.
Cheers to Balance and Flavor
The 2024 Canada Beer Cup’s low-no alcohol and light lager winners are a testament to the innovation and artistry of Canadian brewers. Whether you’re committing to Damp January or simply exploring a lighter side of beer, these options prove that moderation can be just as rewarding as indulgence. So, raise a glass – alcohol optional – to a flavourful and fulfilling start to the year!