Dry beer is straw-colored, light-bodied, low in bitterness or malt flavors, with alcohol ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 percent. Ice beer is similarly restrained in aroma and flavor, with low but perceptible bitterness, potentially more mouthfeel, and slightly higher average alcohol content. The name “ice beer” refers to the practice of chilling the beer before filtration: ice crystals may or may not be removed. Ice beers are not related to the strong eisbock styles.
Consumers can translate the point score to the following quality bands:
| Point Range | Quality Band |
|---|---|
| 96-100 points | Platinum |
| 90-95 points | Gold |
| 85-90 points | Silver |
| 80-84 points | Bronze |
| Less than 80 | Not Recommended |
= Brewpub86 “Zhujiang” Cold Draft, Guangzhou Zhujiang Brewery Group (China). 4.3% ABV (10/08)
Golden color. Peach jam on toast aromas with a hint of melon rind follow through on a soft, round entry to a dryish light-to-medium body with a hint of lemon curd, pewter and talc on the finish. A refreshing lawnmower beer.
84 Cristal Lager, Cerveceria Backus Y Johnston (Peru). 5% ABV (10/08)
Bright golden yellow color. Butter nut bread toast, crisp, round, pleasant lemon rind and toast fade. A nice quaffer.
The Beer Lover's Buying Guide is produced by the Beverage Testing Institute, an independent, full-time, professional review service.
Michael Miller, owner, Delilah's Night Club; Brian Van Zanbergen, Merchant Du Vin (Importer); Jerald O'Kennard, Director BTI; Patrick Berger, Paddy Long's; Tom Gardner, Duvel Moortgat USA.
