Bigger is better! This mantra has treated craft beer well, an industry known for spotlighting loud aggressive beers with limited release dates and 750-ml bomber packaging… Got to have it!

Most nights, however, the commoner is looking for a social lubricant, an offering that will enhance the moment without hijacking the event with alcohol.

Recently the phrase “session beer” has been making its way into the realm of craft beer. I'm not sure if there is an official definition, but in general terms, it’s used to describe beer that can be enjoyed throughout the course of a sitting… or session.

Typically these offerings are low in alcohol and have a balanced flavor of both hops and malt. In the world of craft lagers and ales, session beer is somewhat of an oxymoron.

The craft beer movement was a reaction to mega breweries producing watered-down product with low alcohol content, usually around 4 percent. Many craft brewers are reluctant to dip below the 5 percent line in fear of being labeled a sellout.

So what’s the attraction? For one, a good session beer is proof that easy-drinking doesn’t mean tasteless. In fact, a balanced beer tweaked enough to stay interesting is a good thing when bunkered down at the local watering hole.

The idea of a session beer is just that; an idea, not a style like Porter or IPA. This notion gives patrons free range when identifying their go-to beer for outings that require a jogger's pace.

My fall session beer was grandfathered into my craft brew portfolio when North America Beverage (NAB) purchased the Vermont Brewing Company in 2010. Magic Hat #9 has all the qualities for holding your attention when making a night of it.

The soft malts, rounded hops, and citrus notes offer a well-balanced attack when the social calendar is full. If you find yourself interviewing candidates for the next session, I highly recommend conjuring up a Magic Hat #9.

Nate Parsons is a contributor to AnnArbor.com and can be reached at modevin@yahoo.com.