Masshole Light Lager

MASSHOLE Light Lager is a Massachusetts-brewed light lager at 4.2% ABV, with a listed bitterness of 0 IBU. That figure points to a beer built around smoothness rather than hop character. Expect little to no perceptible bitterness and a clean, dry finish, with the hops pushed far into the background. Light lagers in this style usually show a faint grainy sweetness, a hint of cereal or cracker-like malt, and light carbonation, with minimal aroma beyond fresh bread or corn-like notes. The low ABV and absence of bitterness make this a beer to drink in volume and with food. It has little flavor of its own to compete with whatever is on the plate, so it works well beside salty, fried and grilled foods: clam strips, fish and chips, hot dogs, burgers, wings, pretzels and sharp cheddar. Its crispness also cuts through spicy dishes such as buffalo sauce or jerk seasoning, since the carbonation and low alcohol do not add heat. Lighter fare like grilled chicken, shrimp or a plain pizza suits it just as well. Serve it cold, around 34 to 38°F, which is the standard range for light lagers and keeps the body crisp and refreshing. Colder than that can mute what little malt character there is, while warmer temperatures make a beer this delicate taste flat and slightly sweet. A tall pilsner glass or a standard pint glass shows off the pale color and carbonation and holds a modest white head. Pour at a slight angle, then straighten the glass to build a short head and release some aroma. Drinking it straight from a cold can or bottle is also entirely reasonable for a beer of this style.