Schlafly Beer is stepping into the low-ABV beer space with Shorty’s Small IPA, a 3.0 percent ABV beer that’s now available on tap at all four Schlafly brewpubs. The beer is part of a new project to create full-flavored beers at sessionable strength—without relying on post-fermentation dealcoholization or watering down.
The Background
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While some St. Louis breweries have experimented with low-ABV hard seltzers, kombuchas, and alternative beverages, few have ventured into intentionally brewing beer at low strength. Schlafly’s “Shorty’s” line aims to carve out that space with full-flavored, low-alcohol beers.
“We’ve been working on various small beers on our R&D pilot system, and Shorty’s Small IPA is the first to make the jump to our Tap Room brewery system,” says Schlafly head brewer Jared Williamson. “It’s been really well-received.”
The beer features a bright aromatic profile with notes of honeydew melon, citrus, mango, and pineapple. “Our aim is to enter the low-alcohol segment with full-flavored beers,” Williamson says. “Most of the offerings in this category tend to be ‘lights’ or ‘ultras’ that don’t pack much flavor. We think you can have both.”
Unlike dealcoholized or watered-down products, Shorty’s Small IPA was brewed to remain low in alcohol. This method—known as “brewing to strength”—requires careful adjustments to the grain bill, mash temperatures, and fermentation profile to maintain body and flavor without ramping up alcohol. “Consumers continue to want more options that allow them to enjoy flavorful beers,” says Williamson, “while being considerate of their alcohol consumption.”
The beer’s name, “Shorty’s,” is a nod to Williamson’s senior rescue dachshund. “Like most wiener dogs, he has a big personality in a small package,” says Williamson. “That’s exactly what we’re trying to do with small beers: short on alcohol, yet long on flavor.”
