Glassware: The summer-like aromas within Summer Ale are perfect and should be experienced to truly enjoy this beer. The two best choices for glassware are a nonic pint glass or a willi becher pub glass. Either of these two will prevent the beer from warming too quickly while also capturing the alluring aroma of the beer. This is a great backyard barbecue beer that can be enjoyed straight out of the bottle after resting in an ice cold cooler.
Description: Brooklyn’s Summer Ale pours a clear, golden yellow with a wispy cloud-like white head that quickly thins out, but lingers. The aromas all bring about thoughts of enjoyable summer days from the citrus/earthy hops to the refreshing malt and subtle hints of lemon and fresh brewed iced tea, perfect for summer weather, very light and extremely refreshing. The English malt flavors cascade over the palate with hints of lemon and notes of earthy citrus hops. The hops make an appearance in a soothing manner, not in a harsh biting sense. They caress the taste buds that cleanse the palate. The finish is crisp and semi dry and leaves behind a lingering taste of fresh brewed iced tea. The carbonation and body for the beer are perfect for the style and make the beer undeniably refreshing. If it is possible to put summer into a bottle Brooklyn Brewery has done it with this magnificent beer that seems to have something for everyone.
Food pairing: This is a very versatile beer, but it is absolutely perfect for your entire summer foodstuff. Any grilled meats are wonderful, especially a juicy burger straight off the grill — heaven on a plate with this beer. The wonderful English malt seemingly melds into the flavors of the meat and for an added treat have yourself a nice apple wood smoked burger with this beer and just enjoy being alive. This is also a great beer to have with some lighter dishes such as a nice summer salad with or without meat. Another great accompaniment to this beer is seafood dishes whether you are thinking fish, shrimp, or clams; Summer Ale is perfect. Another great time to enjoy this beer is with a nice Sunday brunch, it is light and refreshing enough to have with your favorite omelet or a hefty quiche.
The Final Word: Brooklyn Brewery has a vast array of phenomenal seasonal beers including their winter must-have beer, Black Chocolate Stout and Post Road Pumpkin in the fall. While Summer Ale is a bit more subtle with its flavor, it still has everything you could want from a summer beer. The refreshing characteristics make it a great beer to enjoy while doing yard work and the low ABV makes it a beer that is possible to enjoy while still getting yard work done! Summer Ale is another feather in the cap for a world class brewery that despite its age is still brewing incredible beers!
