Summer is here and weather like this screams out for the cooling kick of a summertime ale. For those who have not discovered this once-a-year style, here are some tips to find your perfect pint to beat the heat.
First of all, we need to discuss what makes a beer a “summer seasonal”. Summer beers are of course meant for warmer weather, and accordingly are generally light to medium-light in body for casual ease of drinking. The typical flavor profile includes fruity flavors, often provided by citrus, with lemon and orange zest among the most popular. Brewers also often provide fruity notes with honey, as well as floral hops and unique brewing spices.
The category is largely dominated by ales, with a special emphasis on wheat ales, for a number of reasons. For one, ales are receptive to a large range of hops, and their lighter flavors are relatively simple to tweak and toy with. Second, the smooth taste of wheat ale, made from malted wheat as well as barley, provides an excellent background for fruit and sweetness. Look for this marked difference in flavor in any wheat-based summers you try.
This article appears in Jul 8-14, 2010.