Lighter
Wheat Beer Offers Distinctive Craft Beer Taste with Diversity that
People Crave
(ARA) - When it comes to gathering with friends and family, craft beers
are becoming a prominent guest. Craft beer has enjoyed double digit
growth over the past few years and shows no signs of slowing down.
As consumers tap craft beer for its robust varieties and flavorful
offerings, American brewers are developing unique wheat brews that are
further fueling the success of the category. While bolder,
fuller-flavored German style beers have typically dominated craft beer
selections, wheat (also called weiss or wit from its German and Belgian
origins) beers have seen a sudden surge in popularity largely due to
their lighter, refreshing taste.
The Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company, one of the largest brewers of
specialty beers in the U.S., which offers four wheat beers in its
portfolio of 11 specialty beers, says wheat beers are growing in
popularity because of their crisp, drinkable style. “There’s nothing
like relaxing with a refreshing wheat beer with great character,” says
Jake Leinenkugel, fifth generation brewer and president of
Leinenkugel’s. “Some wheat beers offer unexpected undertones of citrus
or spice, which complements many dishes, from salads and shellfish to
spicy fare such as today’s hot Asian cuisine.”
In addition to its Honey Weiss and Berry Weiss, Leinenkugel’s last year
launched Sunset Wheat, which features a slightly fruity and citrus
character, complimented by the gentle spiciness of coriander. The wheat
brew, which was awarded a bronze medal at the World Beer Cup and the
silver at the Great American Beer Festival in its first year, has
quickly become the fourth fastest growing beer in the U.S. And, most
recently, Leinenkugel’s rolled out its latest summer seasonal,
Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy.
Typically slightly lower in alcohol content and calories, wheat beers
are drawing more women to the craft beer category. “Our female fans
tell us they like the way our wheat beers are presented with sleek
glassware and fruit garnishes such as orange or lemon slices,” adds
Leinenkugel. “They want to trade-up for a differentiated product.”
Wheat beers are best served in an hour-glass shaped beer glass with
room for an ample head. Leinenkugel’s, celebrating its 140th year of
brewing, offers these tips for enjoying wheat beers:
1. Party for one -- Sample a new style of brew with one at your
favorite watering hole before springing for an entire case.
2. Keep it clean -- Any minute particles left in a glass -- dust
specks, lipstick, traces of dishwater grease, or the slightest film --
can interfere with the flavor of a beer.
3. Prep is everything -- Put some cold water into the glass, shake it
and drain it. Then hold the glass at a 45 degree angle and fill it
carefully. Leave some remaining in the bottle and swirl it lightly to
get all the yeast in suspension and then top off your glass.
4. Get a big head -- The larger the foam head, the better because it
releases the carbon dioxide in the beer and thus the flavor and aroma,
it also keeps the beer fresh all the way to the bottom. At least two
fingers of foam is ideal.
5. Sense the flavor -- Experience the beer's sting or effervescence
with your first sip. As it moves back into your mouth you'll begin to
identify other flavors.
For more information about craft beers, recipes utilizing beer or
pairing with beer, tasting tips and availability, visit: www.leinie.com.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
