Less alcohol, not less flavour.

In times gone by, the spotting of a mid-strength beer was met with a disappointed groan. Unfairly seen as a compromise on the real thing, a mid-strength beer was seen as less flavoursome and, hence, less enjoyable. But really, the crafters just had to get a bit more creative. Alcohol in beer contributes to the mouthfeel, so it’s a little more difficult to pull off full flavour with lower alcohol content. Thankfully, many craft brewers have now risen to the challenge and put out ales you can feel smart, almost smug, about – great taste, great vibe, less alcohol. Ahead, we have seven mid-strength beers that will change your mind about these brews.

1. The trailblazer

Credited as the mid-strength beer pioneer in the new wave of mid-strength beers, Little Creatures Rogers Ale is one to know. With roasted caramel malt flavours, light citrus hop notes and a gentle bitterness, this unique, easy-drinking amber ale is the full-strength dupe that has beer-lovers double-checking the label.

Strength: 3.8%

2. The fan favourite

This bright golden ale from NSW brewers Young Henry’s has a cult following, with some reviews declaring, “I prefer it even to full-strength.” Young Henrys Stayer Mid is super refreshing, with stone fruit and lychee hops making it decidedly flavoursome, but not too funky. Just what you want for easy drinking with good mates.

Strength: 3.5%

3. The flavour saviour

Maintaining the brand’s signature brewing technique: no preservatives or additives, Coopers Mild Ale is a mid-strength that holds its own amid the Coopers line-up. The secondary fermentation process gives it that signature cloudiness as well as its smooth malt character.

Strength: 3.5%

4. The summer stayer

From South Australian vegan brewing company Swell comes a mid-strength pale ale designed for all-day drinking. Swell Brewing Co Small Swell 2.0 Mid Strength Pale Ale is perfect for camping trips or long celebrations, plus it’s low in bitterness and light in body. It’s mostly zesty with flavours of mandarin, citrus and pineapple. Fresh, no?

Strength: 3.4%

5. The gentleman’s friend

Balter felt there was something missing in their line-up, and filled it with Balter Captain Sensible. An inclusive craft beer for their most responsible drinkers who “like to keep a lid on it, but still want to crack the top off a couple” – AKA those who are keen to celebrate but need to feel sharp at 6am. To the taste buds, this ale has undertones of refined malt, bright hop notes up top and a mouthfeel that mimics the full-strength players perfectly.

Strength: 3.5%

6. The worldie

Two Bays Brewing Co. Gluten Free Mid Strength Session Ale is designed as a pale ale for summer sessions. It uses hops from two locations, one in the northern hemisphere and one in the southern, hence its globetrotter vibe. There’s mango, stone fruit and berry aromas to enliven an otherwise smooth, crisp palate and a refreshing finish.

Strength: 3.5%

7. The fruity frothy

A summer beer at its best, 4 Pines Pacific Ale is a hazy golden drop that is fruity in flavour, floral in aroma and frothy in the mouth. Passionfruit, pineapple and pear flavours are complemented by a smooth, dry, easy finish. The ideal thing to take for a weekend at the holiday house.

Strength: 3.5%