Here at Al Dente HQ, we believe strongly in the session beer movement. The Wife has bought in to it, as these beers are low in alcohol and don’t cripple you after three or four. I like it because I am a fast drinker. I’m the guy on his third beer as some people are just wrapping their first. This is a problem for me in general when it comes to consumption. I’m usually halfway through dinner while others are making their first knife cuts into a meal.

I can’t tell you why I drink quickly other than that I have an impulsive and excessive personality. Why just have one beer when you can have two? Why have two when you can have four?

I’ve been indulging on session beers for the past year or so, reviewing many here at Al Dente. This is my good, bad, and ugly of the session beer scene:

Finest Kind



In Between

New Belgium Slow Ride: A solid session IPA with a slight watery finish that makes you want to drink more.

Smuttynose Bouncy House IPA: A very enjoyable beer from one of the best breweries in the Northeast.

The Good (in no particular order)



The Average

21st Amendment Bitter American: The flavor was a little more dank than I like, but still not bad. It looks as if 21A is no longer making this one, though I’ve seen six packs on the shelves. One of the original sessions.

21st Amendment Down To Earth: Such a letdown considering the quality of the other beers.

He’Brew Genesis Dry-Hopped Session Ale: The alcohol is too high for a session, and the flavor too weak for a pale ale.

Victory Swing Session Saison: A nifty little saison with more punch. I thought this was better on draught than in a bottle.

The Forgettable