Summer Beer Trends: A Refreshing Guide to This Season’s Favorites
As the mercury rises and the days stretch longer, nothing quite complements the season like diving into the vibrant world of summer beer trends. With nearly 10,000 breweries sprinkled across the U.S., the selection of cold brews available is more diverse and tantalizing than ever. From light lagers to fruit-forward ales, the summer of 2023 is shaping up to be a delightful journey through craft beer trends and the best summer beers designed to quench your thirst and tickle your taste buds.
The Rise of Flavor-Forward Summer Beers
The way Americans enjoy their beer is evolving. Gone are the days when the beer’s base spirit ruled supreme. Today, it’s all about bold, dynamic flavors. Think grapefruit, watermelon, and berry – tastes that don’t just whisper but shout summer from the rooftops. This shift towards prioritizing flavor has pressured breweries to innovate, leading to an explosion of fruit-forward beers, light lagers, and other summer-friendly creations that keep consumers coming back for more.
Spotlight on Seasonal Favorites
Every brewery has its gems, but some summer beers stand out from the crowd, epitomizing the essence of the season with their refreshing profiles and innovative tastes:
- Oberon by Bell’s Brewery: A perfect representation of summer in a glass, Oberon offers a citrusy delight with a creamy head, ideal for sipping on a sweltering day.
- Vacation Reminder by Athletic Brewing Company: As the largest non-alcoholic brewery in the country, Athletic brings a full-bodied, tropical fruit-infused brew that leaves you refreshed without the hangover.
- SeaQuench Ale by Dogfish Head: Hard to define but easy to enjoy, this tart ale combines crisp, bubbly flavors with a hint of lime, epitomizing summer refreshment.
Toast to Sustainability and Innovation
More than ever, breweries are committing to Sustainability, ensuring that our summer indulgences are kind to the planet. For instance, Beach Report by Allagash brewing Company not only delivers a balanced hop profile and low ABV but also comes from a brewery that places a high priority on environmental stewardship.
As for innovation, breweries are not afraid to experiment. From the radler-inspired Blood Orange Wheat by Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers to the kölsch-radler hybrid Yuzu KSA Radler by Fort Point Beer Company, the boundaries of beer are continually being pushed, leading to exciting and unique summer beer trends that cater to all palates.
Find Your Summer Sipper
Exploring the landscape of craft beer trends and the best summer beers is more than just a seasonal activity; it’s a journey through flavors, techniques, and innovations that breweries bring to the table. This summer, let your taste buds lead the way as you explore the myriad options available. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, chilling at a bbq, or simply looking to cool down, there’s a summer brew with your name on it, ready to make this season unforgettable.
So, as you navigate the crowded shelves and menus, remember that the best summer beers are not just about quenching thirst – they’re about enhancing moments, making memories, and enjoying the full, dynamic tapestry of flavors that only craft beer trends can weave. Cheers to a summer filled with discovery, joy, and, above all, excellent beer.
