Full Moon Brewworks (the creators of Chalawan) is one of Thailand’s most famous craft breweries. Their Say Play Cold IPA is marketed as a “sessionable” and Low Carb option for those watching their calories while living in the tropics. It comes in a very stylish can that promises a crisp, hop-forward experience, but does it actually deliver enough “beer” for your Baht?
The Tasting Notes (The 3.8 Analysis)
I’m awarding this a 3.8 out of 5. While the liquid inside is high quality, the overall “package” has some points that don’t sit right with me:
- The Flavor: As a “Cold IPA” (brewed at lower temperatures with lager yeast but IPA hops), it is incredibly crisp. You get those bright, citrusy hop notes without the heavy bitterness of a traditional IPA. It’s undeniably refreshing in the Chiang Mai heat.
- The Low Carb Dilemma: Here is my main issue. If you are looking for a Low Carb drink, you usually reach for a soda water or a spirit. A beer is supposed to be a beer. By stripping the carbs, you also lose some of the body and “soul” of the brew.
- Price vs. Power: At roughly 100 THB per can, it is twice the price of a Leo Supreme. For that premium, an ABV of only 4.0% feels underwhelming. You’re paying craft prices for a drink that feels a bit too “light” in both alcohol and substance.
| Feature | Details |
| Beer Style | Cold IPA (Low Carb) |
| Alcohol (ABV) | 4.0% |
| Price (490ml) | ~95.00 – 105.00 THB |
| Category | Beers & Spirits |
| Khem’s Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭒︎︎︎ (3.8/5) |
Why a 3.8?
It earns a 3.8 because it’s a well-crafted, clean-tasting IPA that is perfect for someone who wants to avoid a heavy stomach. However, the high price point combined with the low alcohol content and the “Low Carb” gimmick keeps it from reaching a higher score. It’s a “lifestyle” beer more than a “beer lover’s” beer.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful Aroma: The hops are fresh and tropical.
- Extremely Crisp: Very easy to drink when it’s 38°C outside.
- Premium Brand: Full Moon is a respected name in Thai craft.
Cons:
- Expensive: Hard to justify at double the price of a high-quality industrial lager.
- Low ABV: At 4.0%, it feels more like a light “shandy” than a full-bodied IPA.
- Lacks Body: The Low Carb nature makes it feel a bit “thin” on the palate.
FAQ
What exactly is a Cold IPA? It’s a style designed to be as crisp as a lager but as aromatic as an IPA. It’s brewed using lager yeast at higher temperatures or ale yeast at lower temperatures to keep the profile “clean.”
Is it really Low Carb? Yes, it is designed to have fewer carbohydrates than a standard ale, catering to the fitness-conscious crowd in Thailand.
Is it better than Chalawan? In my opinion, no. Chalawan (the Pale Ale) feels like a more complete, satisfying beer experience for a similar price.
Final Verdict
The Full Moon Say Play Cold IPA is a 3.8/5. Technically, it’s a very refreshing drink, but the “Low Carb” marketing feels unnecessary, and the price-to-alcohol ratio is disappointing. If you want a light, citrusy thirst-quencher and don’t mind the price tag, go for it—but don’t expect a traditional IPA punch.