Last summer’s recommendation of PBR, my favorite lawn mower lager, disappointed at least one reader. Feeling the need to redeem myself this June, I am recommending two refreshing and tasty brews that even my mom likes: Stiegl Grapefruit Radler and Lindemans Framboise.
Stieglbrauerei zu Salzburg GmbH—Salzburg, Austria
Steigl Grapefruit Radler
Radler is the German equivalent of shandy: a mix of beer and lemonade or lemon soda. It sounds nasty, but is excellent. The color is hazy straw. The aroma offers strong and invigorating citrus reminiscent of freshly sliced lemons and, especially, grapefruit. Though not fizzy or effervescent, the smell is very soda-like. The mouthfeel is exactly what I would expect from 7-Up or Sprite mixed with lemonade. The flavor is much more like lemonade, too, though the grapefruit is noticeable in the aftertaste. Pour into a pint glass and enjoy after a long bike ride. (Note: Radler is the German word for “cyclist.”)
Brouwerij Lindemans—Vlezenbeek, Belgium
Lindemans Framboise
Lindemans Framboise is a raspberry lambic from Belgium. Unlike most beers that are fermented with carefully cultured yeast strains, lambics are fermented through exposure to wild yeast and are often brewed with whole fruit. The bottle features a cap and cork, so have a corkscrew handy and serve in a flute or snifter. Lindemans Framboise is dark cherry or rose in color and the smell offers an intense fruitiness reminiscent of juice. Beyond the potency, an aroma of freshly-picked raspberries stands out. For me, the first sip was super, lip-puckering tart. The tartness even lingers in the aftertaste, much like hop bitterness does. After the initial shock has faded, it becomes much more palatable. At first there are hints of cranberry, apple and grapes, but as the beer warms the raspberry begins to dominate.
- Serving temperature: Drink both cold at around 40ºF.
- Alcohol content: Both weigh in at 2.5 percent ABV.
- Food Pairings: Pair the sweet flavors in both beers with something sweet, especially light, fruity desserts.
- Where to buy: Stiegl Grapefruit Radler is only available at John’s Grocery, but Lindemans Framboise can be found at John’s, New Pioneer Food Co-op, most Hy-Vee locations and Bootleggin’ Barzini’s.
- Price: $10.99 per six-pack for Stiegl Grapefruit Radler; Lindemans Framboise costs $5-6 per 12-ounce bottle and $10-11 per 750 ml bottle.
Casey Wagner lives in Iowa City.
