If you live in, or have ever holidayed in, Australia, the Coopers brand will likely be familiar to you. As one of the country’s most established breweries, Coopers has built a reputation for producing beers that are widely accessible and well-liked. Their extensive range means there’s something for almost every type of beer drinker, and their mass-market appeal is evident in the popularity of their brews. I happen to think their alcoholic XPA is a pretty solid choice, so it’s worth exploring how their non-alcoholic offerings stack up. Enter Coopers Ultra Light Birell.
It’s an NA beer that promises simplicity and refreshment without the alcohol. True? Let’s find out.
Appearance
When poured, Ultra Light Birell has a clean, crystal-clear pale gold colour that immediately suggests a light and refreshing brew. The effervescence is lively, with bubbles rising to the surface in a steady stream. This creates a delicate, frothy head that dissipates fairly quickly but leaves behind a soft, lingering crown. Visually, it presents as a straightforward, easy-drinking beer, just as you would expect from a brand like Coopers. The appearance doesn’t necessarily stand out, but it serves its purpose well – appealing and easy on the eyes.
Aroma
The aroma of Ultra Light Birell is dominated by a malt sweetness, which is expected from a beer of this style. There’s a subtle backdrop of citrus and floral notes that gives the beer a slight freshness, though these aromas don’t quite develop the same depth that you might find in richer or more complex brews. That being said, the overall fragrance is clean and pleasant. While the beer might lack some of the complexity you’d get from heavier craft beers, the lightness of the aroma is consistent with the style, making it a nice introduction for someone looking for something easy-going.
Taste
The flavour of Ultra Light Birell is exactly what you’d expect from a light beer – clean, crisp, and refreshing. The malt sweetness takes centre stage, giving a mild but pleasant flavour, which is balanced by a hint of toasted barley that adds some depth without overwhelming the palate. The beer glides effortlessly across the tongue, with a smoothness that enhances its easy-drinking nature. The taste is simple, yet satisfying in its own right. It doesn’t challenge the senses, but it doesn’t have to – it provides a straightforward drinking experience that’s ideal when you want something uncomplicated but still enjoyable.
Mouthfeel
In terms of mouthfeel, Ultra Light Birell is light and refreshing, which is exactly what you want in a non-alcoholic beer of this style. The texture is clean and smooth, with no heaviness to weigh it down. It’s easy to drink and perfect for those moments when you want something light and crisp without feeling bogged down by a dense mouthfeel. That said, for those who prefer a more robust or substantial beer experience, the lightness of the Ultra Light Birell might come across as a bit too subtle. But for those who enjoy a refreshing, easy-drinking beer, it’s a satisfying option.
Finish
The finish of Ultra Light Birell is clean and swift, providing a short but pleasant aftertaste. A faint echo of malt sweetness lingers briefly, giving a gentle nod to the beer’s light malt profile. However, the finish is decidedly quick, as you would expect from a beer of this nature. It’s not the kind of brew that lingers on the palate or leaves a complex aftertaste to ponder, but that’s part of its charm. The swift exit complements the beer’s easy-drinking nature, ensuring that it’s refreshing without overstaying its welcome. This clean, quick finish makes it the perfect companion for casual, laid-back drinking.
Pairing Suggestions
Given the subtle flavour profile of Coopers Ultra Light Birell, it pairs best with light, fresh dishes. Think light salads, grilled seafood, or even a simple cheese platter. Its crisp, clean profile is ideal for enjoying on a warm day or as a refreshing choice alongside lighter fare. It’s not the beer you’d reach for when you want to pair something with hearty, rich meals. Its delicate flavours might get lost alongside bolder dishes. Instead, it’s the perfect accompaniment for a relaxed lunch or a picnic on a sunny day – an easy choice when you want something that won’t overpower your food.
Overall Impressions of Coopers Ultra Light Birell
Coopers Ultra Light Birell is a restrained and simple non-alcoholic beer. It doesn’t over-promise or try to do too much, and that’s exactly what makes it a good option for those looking for something easy to drink. The name itself says it all – this is a light-bodied beer with a clean, crisp profile that’s perfect for casual sipping. It doesn’t have the complexity or depth of a full-bodied craft brew, but that’s not its goal. Instead, it delivers exactly what it sets out to. It’s a refreshing, easy-drinking beer that’s well-suited for those who don’t need a heavy or intensely flavoured brew. For anyone seeking a light and uncomplicated non-alcoholic beer, Ultra Light Birell is a solid choice.