Fruit-flavored beers have been much maligned by men the world over for being, well, of questionable masculinity. But these weeks between the brutal summer and much-awaited fall are the perfect time to try beers that are as flavorful as they are refreshing. Below are four carefully researched fruit beers that have real body, color, and flavor and will prime your palette for autumn’s heavier fare. You may not be toting them to Monday Night Football, but they’re worth your time at any cookout or dinner party as this summer winds down.
Dogfish Head Festina Peche (4.5% ABV)
As if being a member of the esteemed Dogfish family weren’t enough, this dry and bubbly peach-flavored brew shines as the perfect . More tangy than sweet, it’s bright and refreshing on its own or as an accessory to lighter dishes like grilled fish. Enjoy it at it’s best, while the days are still steamy.
Sweetwater Blue (4.9% ABV)
This golden southern ale is the perfect marriage of berries and beer. The blueberry does what it needs to do and gets out of the way, giving you a subtle aroma of natural fruit that doesn’t overpower the beer itself. A bit heavier than the Festina Peche, Sweetwater Blue will satisfy well into early fall when the days are warm, but the evenings are crisp.
