Session Beer

Color: The color should mimic the classic style upon which the beer is based

Clarity: Appearance may vary from brilliant to hazy to cloudy and should mimic the classic style upon which the beer is based

Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Should mimic the classic style upon which the beer is based

Perceived Hop Aroma & Flavor: Should mimic the classic style upon which the beer is based

Perceived Bitterness: Should mimic the classic style upon which the beer is based

Fermentation Characteristics: Varies with underlying style

Body: Varies with underlying style

This category includes any style of beer made lower in strength than described in the classic style guidelines. These beers should exhibit lower alcohol content than the classic style. Drinkability is key to a successful session beer. Beers exceeding 5.0% abv (4% abw) are not categorized as Session Beers. Beers which fit in another classic or traditional category should not be categorized as Session Beers.

When using these guidelines as the basis for evaluating entries at competitions, organizers may wish to further sub-categorize this category, for example, creating a Session India Pale Ale or other large subcategory(ies) as needed.

• Color SRM (EBC): 2+ (4+ EBC)
• ABV: 2.8%-4.0% (3.5%-5.0%) %
• IBU: 10-35
• AE - Apparent Extract: 1.004-1.010 (1.0-2.6 °Plato)
• OG - Original Gravity: 1.034-1.040 (8.5-10.0 °Plato)