It’s About Time You Met the Easiest Beer to Drink

What Does “Drinkability” Mean?

Drinkability refers to the level of satisfaction that comes from drinking a beer. It’s directly tied to the taste and mouthfeel of the beer and whether or not it inspires the drinker to consume more. In the past, drinkability was not considered an important factor in brewing beer. However, as taste preferences for beer have broadened and it has become increasingly challenging to create beers that appeal to a wide range of taste preferences, drinkability is becoming a more important consideration for brewers.

A beer with good drinkability is often referred to as an “easy drinking beer” or a “beer for beginners” because it’s accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of beer drinkers, including those that may not be big into beer. However, drinkability is not limited to any particular style or type of beer. It can be found in a wide variety of beers, from light lagers to rich stouts. The key is to find a balance between the different flavors and ingredients used in the beer to make it appealing to the drinker.

Factors That Can Impact Drinkability

Drinkability is a complex concept that’s influenced by a variety of factors. The composition of the beer, including the ingredients used and the brewing method, can have a significant impact on a beer's drinkability.

For example, using wheat in a beer can create a softer, creamier mouthfeel and a more refreshing finish, making it a good beer for non beer drinkers. Similarly,  hops that are low in bitterness can create a beer that’s more approachable for beginners or those who prefer a more mild beer.

The brewing method can also have a significant impact on drinkability. For example, a beer that’s fermented at a lower temperature will typically have a crisper, cleaner taste, while a beer that’s fermented at a higher temperature will tend to have a fruitier, more complex flavor profile. Additionally, the levels of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in a beer, which is a compound that contributes to a corn-like or vegetable-like flavor, can also impact drinkability. High levels of DMS can make a beer taste off-putting, while low levels can make it more pleasant to drink.

The pH, sugar levels, phenolic and ester compounds, protein levels, and alcohol by volume (ABV) in a beer can also play a role in determining its drinkability. A beer with a low pH and low levels of sugar will tend to be more refreshing, while a beer with a higher pH and higher sugar levels may be richer. The best tasting beer for beginners will typically have a balanced level of sweetness and acidity.

Phenolic/ester compounds are compounds that give beer its flavor and aroma. These compounds can range from fruity esters to spicy phenols, and they are created during the fermentation process. Different styles of beer will have different levels of phenols and esters, with Belgian-style ales being particularly high in these compounds. High phenol/ester levels can often give beer a stronger flavor and aroma, which can either enhance or detract from its drinkability, depending on the person drinking it. High levels of protein can lead to a cloudy and full-bodied beer, while low levels of protein can lead to a more crisp and refreshing beer. Higher protein levels can also leave a coating on the tongue, which can also contribute to a beer’s drinkability. Finally, lower ABV beers are generally more sessionable, meaning they can be consumed in larger quantities over a longer period of time.

Breaking Down Island Brands’ Best Tasting Beers

Island Brands offers a variety of beers that are known for their great taste, drinkability, and premium clean ingredients. These options include Island Coastal, Island Active, and CRUSH — all brewed with a smooth, refreshing taste that makes them easy to drink and perfect for any occasion. 

Island Coastal

Island Coastal Lager (ICL) is made with a blend of malt and hops that creates a balanced flavor profile. The malt provides a slightly sweet and bready taste, while the hops give it a subtle bitterness. It's light and refreshing, making it perfect for those who are not regular beer drinkers. Choose from the OG, Lemonada, Southern Peach, or Pomelo Grapefruit (coming soon!) or better yet, grab our variety pack and have them all!

Original

Island Coastal Lager is made for thrill-seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and beer drinkers everywhere. Brewed with only the finest, all-natural ingredients, Island Coastal is the clean, crisp beer to reach for next time you’re in the sun.

Island Southern Peach

Juicy, sun-ripened peaches, fresh-brewed Southern tea, and premium beer are combined to create Island Southern Peach. Fresh and flavorful with a hint of sweet peach tea, this updated twist on a Southern classic  is made for easy drinking.

Lemonada

Inspired by the Mediterranean’s coastal lemon groves, Island Lemonada is both thirst-quenching and delicious. Kick back and soak up the sunshine with this shandy that perfectly balances the finest premium beer and fresh-squeezed lemonade. Sip it during pool side parties, backyard BBQs, and river rafting trips.

Pomelo Grapefruit

Originally discovered in the West Indies, the pomelo was once known as the forbidden fruit. Tart and juicy with a kiss of bitterness, Island Pomelo Grapefruit takes the best of this succulent citrus and combines it with our super premium lager for the ultimate in treat-yourself refreshment.

Island Active

Island Active is another crisp and clean premium light lager on our roster. Only 88 calories (per 12 oz.) and made without fillers or preservatives, it’s the perfect fit for an active lifestyle. Active comes in four different flavors: OG, Lime, Watermelon, and Mango. No matter what flavor floats your boat, you can sip on this guilt-free!

Original

Island Active (Original) is a crisp and clean premium light lager. Only 88 calories and made without fillers or preservatives, it can be enjoyed wherever your next adventure takes you.

Island Active Lime

Island Active Lime is the same low-carb, low-cal, super premium beer as our best-selling Island Active, kissed with a hint of natural lime flavor. Just tart enough to put a smile on your face, but not so much that it makes you pucker.

Island Active Watermelon

Island Active Watermelon takes everything you love about watermelon — the juiciness, the endless refreshment — and combines it with our delicious low-calorie lager, without the seeds or stickiness.

Island Active Mango

Island Active Mango marries our super premium light lager with natural mango flavor for a beer that tastes like a tropical sunset. Or sunrise. Or midday sun. Read: very, very sunshine-y.

CRUSH

Looking for something with a little extra kick? CRUSH is our flavored malt beverage with a whopping 10% ABV. What will be your new favorite flavor– Lime Margarita, Strawberry Lemonade, or Tropical Punch? These flavors are sure to stand out on your palate and get you buzzing quickly. 

Take Drinkability to the Next Level with Island Brands

In summary, drinkability is the level of satisfaction that comes from drinking a beer and is directly tied to whether or not the taste and mouthfeel inspire the drinker to consume more. Factors that influence drinkability include beer composition, brewing method, levels of dimethyl sulfide (DMS), pH, sugar levels, phenolic/ester compounds, protein levels, and alcohol by volume (ABV).