If you’re building your alcohol-free beer collection, you’ve likely landed on two core styles from Days Brewing Co: a crisp, easy-drinking Lager and a more expressive, hop-forward Pale Ale. They look similar in a glass, but the drinking experience is noticeably different. Choosing between them isn’t about which is “better” — it’s about matching the beer to the moment, your meal, or your mood.
This quick guide breaks down the flavour profiles, ideal occasions, and practical tips for each. By the end, you’ll know exactly which 0.0% style to grab from the fridge — and when a mixed pack might be the smarter move.
Flavour & Body: What Sets Them Apart
DAYS Lager is brewed for refreshment. It’s clean, light-bodied, and finishes crisp with a subtle malt sweetness and a mild hop bitterness. The carbonation is lively, making it feel bright on the palate. This is the beer you can drink several of without flavour fatigue — exactly what you’d expect from a well-made alcohol-free lager.
DAYS Lager
DAYS Pale Ale, on the other hand, brings more character. You’ll notice a fuller mouthfeel from the malt backbone, plus distinct citrus and floral notes from the hops. The bitterness is more pronounced but still balanced, so it doesn’t overwhelm. It’s a beer that rewards slow sipping and pairs well with bolder foods. If you enjoy the complexity of a traditional pale ale, the non-alcoholic version delivers that same satisfying depth without the alcohol.
DAYS Pale Ale
- Quick cheat: If you want something easy and thirst-quenching, go Lager. If you want flavour you can taste and think about, go Pale Ale.
Best Occasions for Each Style
Because of its light body and clean finish, DAYS Lager works brilliantly in social, active settings. Think backyard barbecues, picnics, watching the game, or just unwinding after a workout. It’s the beer you hand to a friend who isn’t sure about alcohol-free — approachable and familiar. For designated drivers, it’s a no-brainer: you get the crisp beer experience without the buzz.
DAYS Pale Ale shines when you want a beer that stands up to strong flavours. Pair it with spicy dishes, grilled meats, sharp cheeses, or even dark chocolate. It also works well as a slow-drinker during a relaxed evening at home. If you’re hosting a tasting or a dinner party, the Pale Ale gives guests something to talk about — there’s real hop character to discuss.
- Don’t overthink it: a DAYS Lager is your go-to for volume drinking (like a day out); Pale Ale is your go-to for pairing and savouring.
How to Decide — And Why a Mixed Pack Can Help
Still torn? Start by considering your usual beer habits. Do you normally reach for a crisp pilsner or lager when drinking alcoholic beer? Then DAYS Lager will feel natural. Do you tend to choose IPA or pale ale? Then the Pale Ale is likely your lane. But the truth is, both styles have their place, and your preference can shift depending on the day.
For newbies, the DAYS MIXED LAGER, PALE ALE & PEACH CANS PACK is a smart purchase. It gives you both core styles plus a fruity option, so you can compare side by side without committing to a full case of one. You’ll discover that lager vs pale ale isn’t about one being “better” — it’s about knowing which 0.0% beer fits the situation. And once you know, you can buy with confidence.
- Pro tip: Pour each into a proper glass like the DAYS Half Pint Glass to fully appreciate the aroma and clarity — it makes the difference between the two styles much more obvious.
Both DAYS Lager and DAYS Pale Ale are excellent 0.0% beers, but they serve different roles in your fridge. Let the occasion and your food guide you. When in doubt, grab a mixed pack to keep both on hand — you’ll be ready for anything.
