A cold beer is the perfect match for any summer activity: grilling, lounging by the pool or on beach, or outdoor concerts. The tried-and-true Rocky Mountain lagers have always been a staple, but don’t forget to check out the amazing things being done in the craft beers industry. Try some of our summer beer picks:
Unknown Brewing No Shame Wheat. Unknown is a relative newcomer to the Charlotte beer scene at just under 1 year old, but already has some killer beer. No Shame is available year-round, but a growler of this hazy wheat ale is at home during the summer.
Birdsong Doin’ Thyme Witbier. Doin’ Thyme is only around for the early summer, so don’t put off trying this one too long. A Belgian wheat base with aromatic thyme and coriander aromas and a bright herbal flavor. Refreshing on its own but has the backbone to pair well at your next cook out.
21st Amendment Hell or High Watermelon. Watermelon is as symbolically summer as a fat guy in a red suit means Christmas. This summer seasonal starts with 21st Amendment’s wheat beer, but then undergoes a second fermentation with fresh watermelon to make a beer that is dangerously easy to drink.
Magic Hat Elder Betty. Smelling of elderberries was at one time an insult, but Magic Hat has made it a thing to desire. Elder Betty is a German Weiss-style wheat beer infused with the tart flavors of elderberries. For a unique brew, definitely worth a try.
Sierra Nevada Hoptimum DIPA. More a special limited release than a true summer beer, Hoptimum is a double IPA that will appeal to hop heads this season. Syrupy like a DIPA should be, Hoptimum boasts huge citrus hops and bitterness, with just the right amount of sweet malt to round the edges.
Bell’s Oberon. What does Michigan know about summer, anyway? Enough to churn out one of the most popular summer beers in the U.S. Light body, grainy flavors, smooth finish, and mildly fruity — Bell’s had an afternoon on the lake in mind for this summer seasonal. The can packaging makes it even easier to take it on the beach or the lakeshore.
Availability varies around the area and most are only here for a limited time. : :