Understanding the Alcohol Content of Redbridge Sorghum Beer
Redbridge is a gluten-free lager produced by Anheuser-Busch. A key characteristic of beer is the Alcohol by Volume (ABV), which indicates the percentage of alcohol in the beverage. The alcohol content of Redbridge is 4.0% ABV. The fermentation process transforms the sorghum and corn syrup into the final alcoholic beverage. This places it in a similar alcohol range to many popular domestic lagers, despite its use of alternative ingredients like sorghum instead of traditional barley.
The Brewing Process Behind Redbridge
Redbridge is brewed with sorghum as the primary grain. Sorghum is a naturally gluten-free cereal grain that has been used in brewing, particularly in African brewing traditions. The brewing process involves fermenting a mix of water, sorghum, and corn syrup. Hops, specifically Hallertau and Cascade hops, are added to achieve its flavor. The result is a full-bodied, rich-tasting lager that mimics the experience of traditional beer, but without any wheat or barley.
Nutritional Information and Flavor Profile
Beyond alcohol content, the overall nutritional profile is important. Redbridge is a zero-fat, zero-protein beer, with calories coming from carbohydrates. A 12-ounce serving contains around 127 calories and 12 grams of carbohydrates. The flavor profile is described as well-balanced and full-bodied, with a slightly sweet, grainy taste from the sorghum. Its taste is often compared favorably to other domestic lagers, making it a reliable and accessible option in the gluten-free market.
Comparison to Other Gluten-Free Beers
| Feature | Redbridge Sorghum Beer | Omission Lager (Gluten-Removed) | Bard's Gold (Sorghum Beer) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABV | 4.0% | ~4.6% (Varies by style) | Not specified |
| Gluten Status | Naturally Gluten-Free | Gluten-Removed | Naturally Gluten-Free |
| Brewing Base | Sorghum, corn syrup | Barley malt | Sorghum |
| Flavor Profile | Balanced, hoppy | Light and crisp | Stronger gluten-free character |
| Availability | Widely available | Widely available | Less common |
What to Expect When Drinking Redbridge
Redbridge is designed to be a gluten-free option. It's often compared to traditional American lagers. The 4.0% ABV is a moderate level for casual consumption.
Discontinued Production and Market Availability
Recent reports indicate that production has been discontinued. This has led to many consumers seeking alternatives. The reason for its discontinuation has not been publicly stated by Anheuser-Busch. Some stores may still have stock, but its national availability is no longer guaranteed. Consumers looking for similar options may want to explore other sorghum-based beers or gluten-removed products.
Conclusion
The alcohol content of Redbridge sorghum beer is 4.0% ABV. It was brewed as a gluten-free alternative to traditional lagers, using sorghum and corn syrup. While it offered a reliable option for those with dietary restrictions, its production has reportedly been discontinued by Anheuser-Busch. Its availability has become increasingly limited for consumers.
This information may be outdated due to production changes. Always check with retailers for current product availability.
Authoritative external link: For historical context on sorghum brewing, visit the Soul Barrel article on Brewing with Sorghum.
