As the temperatures rise and the days get longer, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a refreshing beer to beat the summer heat. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, grilling in the backyard, or enjoying a beach day, a cold brew is the perfect companion for summer relaxation. In this article, I’ll be sharing my personal recommendations for the 13 best summer beers, along with some personal touches and commentary to give you a deeper insight into these brews.
1. Sierra Nevada Summerfest
This classic lager from Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is a staple of summer beer lists for good reason. It’s light and crisp, with a hint of citrus and a clean finish. I love sipping on this beer while watching the sunset after a long day at the beach.
2. Dogfish Head SeaQuench Ale
If you’re looking for a beer that’s both refreshing and unique, look no further than SeaQuench Ale from Dogfish Head. This session sour combines the flavors of a traditional German gose with lime peel, lime juice, and sea salt, creating a perfect balance of tartness and drinkability.
3. Lagunitas DayTime IPA
For the hop lovers out there, Lagunitas DayTime IPA is a must-try. It’s a light and crushable IPA with bright citrus and tropical fruit notes. It’s perfect for those hot summer days when you want something hoppy but not too heavy.
4. Allagash White
This Belgian-style witbier from Allagash Brewing Company is a true summer classic. It’s brewed with a mix of wheat, coriander, and Curaçao orange peel, giving it a light and refreshing flavor profile. It’s a beer that pairs perfectly with a sunny day.
5. Founders Solid Gold
If you’re a fan of straightforward, no-frills lagers, Founders Solid Gold is the beer for you. It’s clean, crisp, and incredibly drinkable. It’s a beer that’s made for backyard barbecues and lazy afternoons spent with friends.
6. Ballast Point Sculpin
When it comes to IPAs, Ballast Point’s Sculpin is a true standout. It’s bursting with hop flavors and has a pleasantly bitter finish. It’s a beer that’s perfect for those who crave a hop-forward experience in the summertime.
7. Bell’s Oberon
Oberon from Bell’s Brewery is synonymous with summer for beer enthusiasts across the country. This American wheat ale is brewed with a mix of malted barley and wheat, giving it a smooth and refreshing taste. It’s the perfect beer to enjoy while grilling up some burgers.
8. Firestone Walker 805
If you’re looking for a beer that’s easy-drinking and crowd-pleasing, Firestone Walker’s 805 is an excellent choice. It’s a blonde ale with a light malt sweetness and a clean finish. It’s a beer that’s perfect for any summer occasion.
9. Goose Island Summertime
This Kölsch-style beer from Goose Island Beer Co. is a true summer delight. It’s light, crisp, and has a slightly fruity aroma. It’s a beer that’s begging to be enjoyed on a sunny patio with good company.
10. New Belgium Fat Tire
New Belgium’s Fat Tire is a beloved beer that’s perfect for summer adventures. It’s an easy-drinking amber ale with a biscuit-like malt character and a touch of hop bitterness. It’s a beer that’s equally enjoyable on a camping trip or a lazy day at the lake.
11. Deschutes Fresh Squeezed IPA
If you’re a fan of citrus-forward IPAs, Deschutes Fresh Squeezed IPA is a must-try. It’s brewed with a generous amount of Citra and Mosaic hops, giving it a burst of bright citrus flavors. It’s like sipping on sunshine in a glass.
12. Sam Adams Summer Ale
Sam Adams’ Summer Ale is a classic choice for those who appreciate a traditional wheat beer. Brewed with lemon zest and grains of paradise, this beer has a refreshing lemony flavor with a hint of spice. It’s a beer that screams summer.
13. Three Floyds Gumballhead
Last but not least, Three Floyds’ Gumballhead is a wheat beer that’s sure to impress. It’s brewed with Amarillo hops and a generous amount of wheat, resulting in a beer that’s bold and full of hoppy goodness. It’s a beer that’s perfect for those who crave something a little different.
So there you have it, my personal recommendations for the 13 best summer beers. Whether you prefer a light and crisp lager, a hoppy IPA, or a refreshing wheat beer, there’s something on this list for everyone. Grab a cold one, kick back, and enjoy the ultimate taste of summer.
