I love a good story, and reviewing these non-alcoholic beverages allows me to indulge in that passion. I enjoy delving into the no-booze brewing community, learning about their craft and culture.
Montreal’s award-winning Sober Carpenter came out with a splash on the no-beer scene in 2019. The micro-brewery was started by two beer connoisseur brothers, who used to make beer in their parents’ basement. Over time, their lifestyles evolved but their passion for beer did not sway.
Sober Carpenter has won several awards for their selection of no booze sips and ciders. Their blog offers a behind-the-scenes look at their beer and cider brewing processes, food pairings, beer recipes and ambassadors. Their lineup includes stables like IPA, Blonde Ale, Hazy IPA but their Irish Red – a term usually synonymous with amber red – caught my eye.
There’s been an on-going debate about the benefits of non-alcoholic beer for athletes. Non-alcoholic beer is rich in polyphenols, carbs, sodium and potassium, which is associated with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. That makes it a great post-workout hydrator.
After a recent hike/run, MK and I enjoyed a couple brews in the back of her car. We both agreed – it really hit the spot after a day in the mountains. MK pointed out that she could now drink and drive just like the good old days (just kidding). What is it the German’s say about NA beer? It’s the ‘car-drivers’ beer.
My Review – Irish Red Ale (Rousse Irlandaise) by Sober Carpenter (355 ml, 45 calories, 05.% ABV)
Name Bling (name creativity) – Try as I might but I wasn’t able to find out how they came up with the name Sober Carpenter. Maybe it has something to do with Jesus. He was a carpenter but I suspect the wine was not NA. I like the name though. Simple. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sip n’ Savour (Taste) – I adore amber ales. I was very happy to say I was not disappointed with this Irish Red. It is brewed “in the Irish style with Windsor yeast, where you will first notice the focused aromas of this medium-bodied ale,” according to Sober Carpenter. Again I had no idea what that means but now I do. (I hope I get this right.) Beers created with Windsor are usually described as full-bodied, fruity English ales. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wallet Wellness Index (Value for Money) – Four cans for $12.99. I picked these up at a local grocery store. That seems to be the going rate for a four-pack. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Label Love (Packaging/ Presentation) – I love a good bright red show stopper. This brilliant red really stood out on the shelves at the local grocery store. It’s slick and happy looking (if cans can be happy looking). The packaging was simple with a clean design of green trees and the red can. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall – Before settling on Sober Carpenter’s Irish Red Ale, I chatted with a lady who was picking up a case of NA brews. We gushed over the recent (to me) explosion in the NA brewing community. I mentioned my blog and this dry run series. So if you are reading, dear friend .. this one is a winner! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Where to buy: I have seen Sober Carpenter at many health food stores, supermarkets and grocery stores. Grab a pack here.