The 6 Essential Beers of Summer

It’s that time of year again! Following the release of a number of brilliant spring beers, a wonderful array of summer seasonals are next up to satisfy everyone’s anxious palates. Featuring new releases from Southern Tier, Sierra Nevada, Lagunitas, and Bell’s, you’re going to be busy sampling and searching for a favorite. From California to New York, all of the top breweries have something fascinating and exciting to try.

Bell’s Oberon Ale – One of the more discussed and debated summer seasonal releases comes from Bell’s Brewery out of Michigan. Thick orangey color with a decent head, Oberon releases a burst of wheat and fruit flavors which rapidly quench your beer thirst. This is one where it’s okay to believe the hype.

Lagunitas A Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ Ale – A refreshing American pale wheat ale slated for release in July from this versatile, constantly evolving Northern California brewery. Unlike most wheat beers, this summer exclusive packs a nice punch with 7.3% ABV, without sacrificing the great taste. Expect crisp wheat with a malty base, topped off with a nice hoppy finish.

Sierra Nevada Southern Hemisphere Harvest Fresh Hop Ale – So you thought fresh hop harvest ales were only around in the fall? Sierra Nevada defies the seasons with this bold American pale ale using the freshest hops from New Zealand, which are flown into California for brewing within one week of being picked. If you’re searching for a unique beer experience, be sure to snatch one of these up.

Southern Tier UberSun – New York’s Southern Tier Brewing Company brings us an explosive imperial summer wheat beer which attempts to redefine the traditional seasonal. The appropriately dubbed UberSun has a huge taste with hop presence and spicy edges, creating an overall complex drinking experience. This one is 8% ABV so handle with care.

Victory Sunrise Weissbier – One of our favorite Pennsylvanian breweries puts a twist on summer with their unfiltered German inspired Weissbier. A fascinating tangy, citrus taste with a touch of fruit, Victory went all out, importing all of the ingredients straight from Germany. The Sunrise weighs in at a decent 5.7% ABV, making it potent but still quaffable.

Sam Adams Summer Ale – Probably the most accessible of the well crafted summer beers, Sam Adams doesn’t disappoint with their wildly popular seasonal release. Known for the lemony zest and grains of paradise used while brewing, it’s one everyone has to try.