Understanding the 'Two Hearted Light' Misnomer
Many craft beer enthusiasts search for "How much alcohol is in two hearted light?" due to a common misconception. The product is not called "Two Hearted Light," but rather "Light Hearted Ale." Bell's Brewery, the creator of the iconic Two Hearted Ale, launched Light Hearted as a low-calorie session IPA in 2020 to offer a lighter, more sessionable alternative. This beer retains some of the same aromatic characteristics as its predecessor but with a much lower alcohol by volume (ABV).
The Official ABV of Light Hearted Ale
According to Bell's Brewery, Light Hearted Ale has an ABV of 4%. This deliberately low alcohol level is central to its identity as a session IPA, allowing for easy drinking over an extended period without the more pronounced effects of a higher-gravity beer. This stands in stark contrast to the standard Two Hearted Ale, which clocks in at a potent 7% ABV. The reduced alcohol and calorie count (110 calories per 12 oz) are the primary selling points, targeting consumers seeking a balanced, flavorful, yet more moderate craft beer option.
Comparing Light Hearted to the Original Two Hearted
To truly appreciate the difference in alcohol content, it's helpful to compare Light Hearted and the original Two Hearted side-by-side. The original Two Hearted is a classic American IPA, brewed and dry-hopped exclusively with Centennial hops, resulting in a bold, piney, and grapefruit-forward aroma and taste. Its higher ABV contributes to the rich, balanced flavor profile. Light Hearted, on the other hand, is brewed with Centennial and Galaxy hops, and a different malt bill to achieve its lighter profile. While it shares some aromatic similarities, it is designed to be more approachable and less intense. The flavor difference is a direct result of the lower alcohol content and unique hop blend, which prevents it from being a simple "lighter version" of the original.
| Feature | Bell's Light Hearted Ale | Bell's Two Hearted Ale |
|---|---|---|
| ABV (Alcohol by Volume) | 4% | 7% |
| Style | Session IPA / Lo-Cal IPA | American IPA |
| Calories (12 oz) | 110 | ~212 |
| Primary Hops | Centennial and Galaxy | 100% Centennial |
| Flavor Profile | Citrus and pine aromas, balanced, easy-drinking | Intense pine and grapefruit hop aromas, significant malt backbone |
| Intended Experience | Sessionable, low-calorie, lighter feel | Bold, full-flavored, classic IPA experience |
Why the Distinction Matters for Beer Lovers
For consumers, understanding the distinction is crucial. If you're looking for a beer with a lower alcohol content and fewer calories for extended enjoyment, the Light Hearted Ale is the correct choice. However, if you are expecting the robust, full-bodied, and hop-forward flavor profile that made Two Hearted a celebrated craft beer, you would be disappointed by the lighter version. The "session" nature of Light Hearted means it's less about the singular, impactful hop punch and more about drinkability and refreshment. Conversely, the classic Two Hearted delivers the full force of a well-crafted American IPA.
The Popularity of Session IPAs
Light Hearted's introduction highlights a broader trend in the craft beer market toward sessionable and low-calorie options. As consumer tastes evolve, many drinkers are seeking alternatives that offer complex flavors without the high alcohol content. This has led to the rise of the session IPA category, where brewers experiment with hop varieties and brewing techniques to maximize aroma and flavor while minimizing ABV. Light Hearted's success proves that it's possible to create a beer inspired by a beloved flagship, yet still stand on its own as a unique product. Its existence offers a win-win for Bell's, allowing them to capture new market segments while maintaining the integrity of their classic Two Hearted IPA.
Conclusion
In summary, the beer often referred to as "Two Hearted Light" is actually Bell's Light Hearted Ale, which has a 4% alcohol by volume. This is a significant difference from the original Two Hearted Ale, which contains 7% alcohol. The distinction is not just in name but in the beer's fundamental characteristics: Light Hearted is a low-calorie, easy-drinking session IPA, while Two Hearted is a bolder, more traditional American IPA. Understanding this difference ensures you pick the right beer for your desired flavor and alcohol level, whether you are seeking a lighter option or the full, iconic taste of the original.
Further Reading
For more information on the official beer, visit the Bell's Brewery website to explore the full range of their products.
