Although Bell’s Oberon and Leinenkugle’s Summer Shandy have been out for over a month now, the weather has not cooperated. Doesn’t Mother Nature know that once these beers hit the market, we are supposed to have warm, sunny days with cool, floral-scented breezes? Well, finally the weather has broken, and the growl of rusty lawnmowers fills the air. With new and unique beers being released every day, there are many to choose from no matter your style.

Frankenmuth’s Twisted Helles 

(Available the first week of June)

I can’t tell you how excited I was when I got the email from Frankenmuth’s Chuck Osberger, asking me if we wanted to be one of the select-few retailers to carry its brand-new summer beer: Twisted Helles. Not wanting to go with the normal wheat beer selection, the brewers decided to stick with their German roots. In the late 1800s, the Germans came up with a light and refreshing recipe to compete with the Czech Pils that had become very popular. Helles, German for bright, was just the trick. Now centuries later, Chuck and his team have crafted a beer that reflects summer in Michigan. Spicy, with orange and lemon overtones and a crisp, clean finish, this beer will be the hit of the season. Act fast, though. Like summer, the Twisted Helles is fleeting.

Short’s Nicey Spicey

(Available the first week of June)

I agree with the brewers at Short’s when they say their summer wheat ale is complex yet scrumptious. The name says it all. It features a nice dollop of fresh lemon and orange rind for citrusy tartness, and it’s spiced with coriander and black peppercorn for body and balance.

Angry Orchard Traditional Dry Cider

(Available now)

With gluten-free products being all the rage, Ciders are on the rise, and Sam Adams has struck while the iron is hot! The entire Angry Orchard line of hard ciders is gluten free, but I think the Traditional Dry is the tastiest. Crisp and refreshing with notes of fresh Fuji and Granny Smith apple, the traditional has a bright, bittersweet finish that is thirst quenching and leaves you wanting more.

New Belgium Rolle Bolle Ale 

(Available now)

As Detroiters, we are a step ahead of most of the country when it comes to traditional Belgium Feather Bowling, thanks to the Cadieux Café. Balance comes into play with both the game and the beer. Oats provide a creamy mouth feel, with tropical notes on the nose and a crisp, citrus, hoppy finish from Cascade and Centennial hops. This beer was made for long afternoons at the park playing games and grilling.

After a long, hot day in the yard or on the boat, these beers are the perfect treat to beat the summer heat!

Enjoy!

– Jennifer Laurie