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Beer Styles

Shandies

Beer style guide

Reviewed by , Drinks Editor
Low & No Alcohol BeerLow-alcohol BeersLow-alcohol Beers • General3–8.5% ABVmedium bodylow-medium bitterness

What is Shandies?

A type of beer cocktail that combines beer with lemonade or other citrus-flavored sodas, creating a sweet and refreshing drink.

Best For

Low-alcohol BeersLow-alcohol Beers • General

Food Pairings

Taste & Style

low-medium bitternessmedium bodyCitrusCrispLight BodiedSweetLow & No Alcohol Beer

Flavour profile

Citrus(high)Crisp(high)Light Bodied(medium)Sweet(medium)

Food pairings

Best for

Also known as

Shandy (common_name)

Frequently asked questions

What is Shandies?
A type of beer cocktail that combines beer with lemonade or other citrus-flavored sodas, creating a sweet and refreshing drink.
What does Shandies taste like?
Shandies is often described as Citrus, Crisp, Light Bodied, Sweet. Flavour intensity varies by region, producer and brewery.
What foods pair with Shandies?
Shandies pairs well with Brunch, Salads, Spicy Food, Tacos. Food pairing suggestions are based on complementary flavour profiles.
How strong is Shandies?
Shandies typically has an ABV of 3–8.5%. A standard serving contains approximately 90–320. Strength and calorie content vary by producer and batch.
When should I enjoy Shandies?
Shandies suits casual social occasions, food pairings and sessions where you want a flavourful but approachable beer. The style profile makes it versatile across a range of settings.
What beers are similar to Shandies?
If you enjoy Shandies, explore other beer styles with a similar bitterness and body rating using the sensory bars as a guide. Styles with a matching profile score will feel closest in character.
What are some popular examples of Shandies?
Many breweries produce Shandies across different regions. Seek out local craft examples for fresh flavour, or look for well-reviewed commercial options widely available in bottle shops and pubs.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Tannin/Bitterness (soft to grippy), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent), Boldness (delicate to bold) and Beginner-Friendly (acquired taste to easy intro). Each scale helps you compare beer styles at a glance.
How do I use the sensory profile to find beers I like?
If you like hoppy beers look for High Bitterness. For smooth, easy-drinking beers choose Soft Bitterness and Light Body. Use the Beginner-Friendly rating to find beers that match your experience level.

Style information is approximate and can vary by producer, region and recipe.