When you’re from Chicago, the summer is something to be celebrated.
There are beers that are summer seasonals, and beers that are year
round which are great during this time. Between all the festivals and
Man B Ques, beer selection is crucial to a good time. Generally “lawnmower”
beers are at their prime during these sunnier months but don’t let that
stop you from picking a choice brew.

The summer is the time for light refreshing beers usually in the form of
pilseners, witbiers, and kolschs. Among these styles you will also find brews
with fruit adjuncts, giving your old lady a chance to finally appreciate beer.

My Summer Picks:

Half Acre Daisy Cutter –
If you like hoppy beer you’ll find a unique flavor balance in this
ale. Although this beer is not classified as an IPA, its damn near
close to it. Pours a little hazy with orange/straw color with nice
foamy white head. Fairly strong grassy aroma with a dash of funk,
finishes crisp and somewhat dry. The perfect beer for the end of
a hard day.

Bell’s Oberon -
You cannot deny this good ol’ midwest standby. Classified as a
American wheat ale, this beer is a golden orange color with
a fair amount of haze. A little spicy, citrus tones, a light bodied
super smooth, and super easy beer to drink.

Goose Island Fleur –
My friends are sick of me talking about this beer. Ever since I had a
glass of this last year I’ve been anticipating its next release.
What sets this belgian ale apart from the rest is the use of hibiscus
flowers and kombucha tea. Pours an interesting rose color releasing
a berry/fruit aroma which begins slightly and finishes tart. Don’t
let this one sneak up on you, with 7% ABV you’ll be doing shaky face
photos in no time.

-The Beer Ape

Don’t forget to check out the beers our East Coast friends at Beer Nation recommend:

1. Southern Tier Hop Sun
A tribute to the dynamic energy of the summer. Brewed with 2-row pale malt, wheat malt. Hopped with Centennial, dry-hopped with more of the same.

2. Tröegs Sunshine Pils
Crisp and refreshing with just enough hops to make it something special. Spicy noble hops blend nicely with just the right amount of lager taste to create a balanced and refreshing beer.

3. Dogfish Head Festina Peche
A refreshing neo-Berliner Weisse fermented with peaches.

NOW GO OUT AND DRINK!!!

-The Godfather