4 local low ABV beers to sip now

It wasn’t too long ago when the buzz in craft beer was only about high-gravity styles. Be it a hoppy Imperial IPA or barrel-aged Imperial stout, bigger was always thought of as better. Luckily, the tide has turned, and sessionable beers are gaining a national foothold. Beers like Founders All Day IPA and Tallgrass Halcyon Wheat showcase big flavor without the high alcohol content, meaning you can sip more and stay standing. Give these four local low-gravity beers a go.

The Civil Life Brewing Co. English Pale Ale
A benchmark for the style, the 4.2-percent Civil Life EPA is a perfect example of an American brewer working in a classic British style. Biscuity malts balanced with subtle, grassy hop characteristics make this beer a must-try. Only available on draft. The Civil Life Brewing Co., 3714 Holt Ave., St. Louis, thecivillife.com

Excel Brewing Co. Flash Bang
A newcomer to the local, lower-ABV category, this hop-forward wheat beer combines refreshing taste with delightfully citrusy notes. At 4.6 percent, Flash Bang proves you can pack a hoppy punch in a lower-test brew. The Wine and Cheese Place, 7435 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314.727.8788, wineandcheeseplace.com

2nd Shift Brewing Co. Green Bird Gose
A style unfamiliar to many, a Gose (pronounced go-suh) is brewed with coriander and a touch of salt. At 4 percent, Green Bird’s doughy malt profile and refreshing tartness round out this gem of a beer. Bridge Tap House, 1004 Locust St., St. Louis, 314.241.8141, thebridgestl.com

Morgan Street Black Bear
The award-winning Schwarzbier will make you rethink dark beer. This 4.6-percent, medium-bodied black lager has a slightly roasty malt character that finishes clean and sweet. The result is a surprise to your senses. Morgan Street Brewing Co., 721 N. Second St., St. Louis, 314.231.9970, morganstreetbrewery.com