JW Lees launches lower strength beers

Manchester brewer JW Lees announced has launched two draught beers with an alcohol content of only 2.8%.

This comes on the back of George Osborne announcing last March there would be a 50% duty cut on beers of 2.8% alcohol by volume (ABV) or less from October.

There will be a lager available called Golden Lite and a smooth beer available called Greengate Lite. Golden Lite will also be available extra cold in some venues.

Michael Lees-Jones, head brewer at JW Lees said “We are really pleased with these beers. The alcohol content may be a little lower than usual but they still have great flavour.”

Brigid Simmonds, chief executive, British Beer & Pub Association, said: “We are pleased that the Government has decided to reduce duty for beer below 2.8%. This will provide a welcome incentive for further investment in these beers, and encourage people to choose lower-strength drinks.”