The Calorie Breakdown for SweetWater 420 Extra Pale Ale
For a standard 12-fluid-ounce serving, the SweetWater 420 Extra Pale Ale contains 170 calories. A deeper look at the nutritional profile reveals where these calories come from, primarily the alcohol and carbohydrates. This American Pale Ale boasts a 5.7% alcohol by volume (ABV), which is a key contributor to its total caloric value, as alcohol contains approximately 7 calories per gram. The rest of the energy comes from the beer's carbohydrate content.
From the macronutrient perspective, the 12 fl oz serving contains 13 grams of carbohydrates, which is fairly standard for a pale ale of this ABV. It has zero grams of fat and approximately 2 grams of protein. Understanding this breakdown is important for anyone watching their carbohydrate intake, as these are the main non-alcohol calories present.
SweetWater 420 Extra Pale Ale vs. Other Beers
Comparing the calorie count of SweetWater 420 to other beer types can provide useful context. Its 170 calories per 12 fl oz places it in a middle range among beers, lighter than a heavy stout or high-ABV IPA, but more caloric than a standard light beer.
| Beer Type | Serving Size | ABV | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| SweetWater 420 Extra Pale Ale | 12 fl oz | 5.7% | 170 kcal |
| Light American Lager | 12 fl oz | ~4.2% | ~110-120 kcal |
| Heavy Imperial IPA | 12 fl oz | ~8.0%+ | ~250+ kcal |
| SweetWater 420 Hydro Ponics Seltzer | 12 fl oz | varies | ~100 kcal |
| Stout | 12 fl oz | 5.0%+ | ~180-200 kcal |
Factors Influencing the Calorie Count
Several factors can cause a beer's calorie count to vary. For the SweetWater 420 series, specific product choices and serving sizes are the most significant determinants.
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): As a general rule, a higher ABV correlates with a higher calorie count. This is because ethanol is a calorie-dense compound. The variations within the 420 family, such as the 5.7% ABV Extra Pale Ale and the 4.8% ABV Mango Crush, reflect this trend.
- Serving Size: The most common source of confusion comes from different serving sizes. A 16 fl oz pint of 420 Extra Pale Ale, for instance, contains a proportionally higher number of calories, around 220 kcal, than the 12 fl oz can. Always check the serving size when comparing nutritional information.
- Brewing Ingredients and Fermentation: The amount of fermentable sugars left over after the yeast has done its work contributes to the final calorie and carbohydrate count. Different types of grains and adjuncts used in brewing will also affect the nutritional profile.
- Specialty Versions: The SweetWater 420 series includes other varieties like the 420 Mango Crush and 420 Extra Chill, which have different ABVs and thus different calorie counts from the flagship Extra Pale Ale.
Additional Beers in the SweetWater 420 Family
Beyond the original Extra Pale Ale, the SweetWater 420 line includes several variants, each with its own ABV and taste profile. Those managing their caloric intake should be aware that the nutritionals will differ between these products. For instance, the brewery has released:
- 420 Citrus Haze: A hazy pale ale with a 5.4% ABV.
- 420 Mango Crush: A vibrant pale ale with a lower 4.8% ABV, which would likely mean fewer calories than the original.
- 420 Extra Chill: A cold pale ale with the lowest ABV in the series at 4.5%, suggesting a lighter calorie load.
- 420 Strain G13: An American IPA with a higher ABV of 5.7%.
Conclusion
For those wondering how many calories are in a Sweetwater 420 beer, the core answer is 170 calories for a 12 fl oz serving of the Extra Pale Ale. This figure is influenced by both its 5.7% ABV and 13g carbohydrate content. When considering other versions in the 420 family, it is crucial to account for variations in serving size and ABV, as these factors directly impact the final calorie count. Understanding these nutritional details allows for informed choices without sacrificing the enjoyment of craft beer.
BeerAdvocate profile for SweetWater Brewing
Lists of Other SweetWater 420 Offerings
- 420 Citrus Haze (5.4% ABV)
- 420 Mango Crush (4.8% ABV)
- 420 Extra Chill (4.5% ABV)
- 420 Strain G13 (American IPA)
The Role of Different Serving Sizes
- 12 fl oz can/bottle: 170 calories for the Extra Pale Ale.
- 16 fl oz pint: Approximately 220 calories for the Extra Pale Ale.
- Pitcher: Can contain over 800 calories depending on the size and beer.
