Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy has a different taste than most beers. The label reads “Beer With Natural Lemonade Flavor.” While the label certainly doesn’t mislead its “lemon” flavor, the beer tastes more like a lemon Jolly Rancher dropped into a normal, light beer than a glass of lemonade. The lemon aftertaste also lingers for a while for added refreshment. Sounds disgusting, doesn’t it?
Well, it’s anything but disgusting. It is only available April-August, but it’s worth stashing a few in the back corner of your fridge when you’re in the mood for a good, unique-tasting beer during the winter. The label is also very inviting to a drinker. The Leinenkugel’s logo is set over the backdrop of a lake, which gives a drinker the feeling of being back in warm, summertime months.
What is a Shandy?
On Leinenkugel’s Web site, a Shandy is described as a lemonade-flavored beer, which is a European favorite during the warmer months. The light, crisp flavor makes it very refreshing to drink.
How is Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy Brewed?
According to www.leinie.com, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy starts off being brewed like any “regular beer,” using wheat and malted barley. But the similarities to “regular” beer end there. A small amount of real Wisconsin honey is added to the brew, along with real, fresh lemonade and citrus flavors to create its unique taste.
The Web site also suggests mixing equal parts of Berry Weiss with Summer Shandy to create a pink lemonade. At just 130 calories, it’s one of the lighter beers out there and features 4.2 percent alcohol content, about the same as a regular, light beer.
Where can Summer Shandy be Purchased?
Leinenkugel’s products can be found at several different locations in 47 states (excluding Oklahoma, Alaska and Hawaii), according to leinie.com. Certain bars have Summer Shandy on tap, and it can also be purchased in six, 12 and 24-packs of bottles.
With this being the start of winter in December, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy isn’t available again for another four months, but if you have a Summer Shandy sitting in the back of your fridge, grab it and give it a try. If you’re in the mood for a unique beer, have a sweet tooth and already like the lemon taste, you won’t be disappointed.
