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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
Latest Posts
- Does anyone else feel guilty drinking beer alone because it’s supposed to be a social experience?
- I’m new to drinking beer and I need some suggestions.
- Cleaning house and found a 10-15 year old bottle of barley wine from High Water Brewing, which I think no longer exists. What are the chances it’s drinkable, as in not holding my nose drinkable?
- I’m new to drinking beer and I need some suggestions.
- Tried Dragon’s Milk and loved it, any other dark/milk stout recommendations?
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Exploring Higher ABV Alternatives to Your Favorite Lagers
As a seasoned craft beer enthusiast, it’s not uncommon to experience shifts in taste. Many of us find ourselves drawn back to lighter, refreshing brews from time to time. In recent discussions, a question has emerged that piques the interest of beer lovers: is there a higher-alcohol version of popular macro beers like Stella Artois or Peroni?
While it may sound unconventional, the appeal of those crisp, well-balanced flavors remains strong. The quest is for beers that retain the same refreshing notes but boast a higher alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 7%.
One might consider Belgian Dubbels as a potential alternative; however, they typically present a more complex flavor profile that differs significantly from the clean, easy-drinking characteristic found in lighter beers.
So, what are some suitable options that satisfy this craving for a similar taste with an elevated kick? Here are some recommendations:
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Belgian Tripels: Building on the Belgian theme, Tripels are often higher in ABV and surprisingly smooth. They deliver a fruity and spicy flavor that can also be surprisingly light on the palate.
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Helles Doppelbock: This Munich-style lager offers a malty sweetness accompanied by a higher ABV, maintaining that easy-drinking feel while giving you the extra potency you seek.
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Craft Lagers with Elevated ABV: Some craft breweries are producing lagers that mirror the flavor profiles of mainstream options like Stella or Peroni but with a robust ABV of 7% or more. Searching local taprooms or craft beer shops can yield enjoyable finds in this category.
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IPA Variants: For those who don’t mind branching out, certain IPAs achieved a crisp, refreshing vibe while packing a higher punch. Some session IPAs can deliver bright hop flavors without overwhelming bitterness, often in the 6-7% range.
This inquiry might seem simple, yet it opens the door to a world of exploration within the craft beer space. Whether you seek a familiar taste with a kick or are ready to try something new, there’s a growing selection of brews out there to satisfy your palate. Happy tasting!