Crack
open a cold one. Ah. Is your mouth watering in anticipation of
the malty goodness in a frosty, frothy beer? Whether you’re
lying in a hammock or entertaining on the deck, the heat of
summer calls for light, refreshing brews.
Typically
“summer” beers are light ale styles, German or American wheat
beers, Pilsners, and fruit beers. Pilsner originally referred to
a particular beer brewed in Pilsen, in the Czech Republic, but
today it generally refers to any pale, light lager. Fruit beer
is mild and ale flavored with fruit concentrates. The right
combination of grain, sugar, and hops can’t be beat.
Many summer
beers are in the wheat category, which is lighter and more
carbonated than other brews, making it a great warm-weather
choice. Although it’s been around since ancient times, wheat
beer as we know it today was first brewed in 16th
century Germany. The German style is called “weizen” (pronounced
vice-en) and has a golden color with a smooth, grainy,
and sometimes fruity taste. Another style is “Hefeweizen,” which
is made with wheat and other grains. Its complex flavor can
include notes of clove, spice, banana, and possibly even a hint
of bubble gum. Some summer ales have notes of ginger and spice,
making for a sweet palate and refreshing dryness in the finish.
Serve these thirst-quenching beers with a slice of lemon or lime
to highlight their fruit character.
Much discussion
centers around food and wine pairing, but what about food and
beer pairings? Or a beer and cheese party? That’s right—beer
pairs very nicely, not only with the proverbial burger or brat,
but also with a nice Brie or Camembert (try a pale ale, Pilsner,
or fruit beer). Cheddar, Swiss, Edam, Gruyere, and Jarlsberg
also pair well with these brews. The spicy flavors of barbecued
food work well with Pilsner, and just as a white wine is a good
choice with most fish, so too is a hoppy Pilsner. And what about
that burger or brat? German weizens or Hefeweizens are, of
course, excellent choices.
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