Fruitasia beer from Short's Brewing Company. Photo courtesy of Short's Brewing.
The annual Michigan Summer Beer Festival was officially canceled a couple weeks ago, bumming out thousands of craft beer fans across the state. Originally scheduled to take place in July, the news hardly comes as a surprise given the state of the country (and the world) right now. Taking into account the health and wellness of would-be festival goers, it was the right call to make.
But, that won’t stop Michigan craft beer lovers from safely sipping on old and new favorites all summer long while remaining socially distant. That’s thanks to breweries still shipping out seasonal brews for us to enjoy from the comfort of our patios with the sun shining down on us. Drink up, summer’s here!
“Fruitasia” by Short’s Brewing Company
Ledergosen from Atwater Brewery. Photo courtesy of Atwater Brewery.
Clocking in at just 4.4% ABV, “Fruitasia” from Short’s brings together mango, tangerine, and pineapple flavors for a hazy India Pale Ale with high drinkability. It’s available all summer long and I’m excited because I can’t remember the last time I tried a new fruit-flavored IPA.
“Ledergosen” by Atwater Brewery
Putting a Michigan spin on a German style ale, “Ledergosen” from Atwater incorporates Michigan cherries and a pinch of saltiness for a 4.2% ABV sour gose ale. It’s available now through July on draft and in bottles and cans.
“Flamingo Fruit Fight” by Bell’s Brewery
“Flamingo Fruit Fight” blends passionfruit and lime flavors for a fruity beer that sports a 5% ABV. Longtime fans of Bell’s might recognize the flavor as it was originally sold under the name “Larry’s Latest.” Flamingo Fruit Fight is available now in 12-oz. six-packs.
“Gypsy Goddess – Raspberry Radler” by Rochester Mills
What summer beer list would be complete without at least one radler? This one comes from Rochester Mills Beer Co. and features a tart raspberry/lemon flavor. It has a low ABV at just 3.2% per pint and Rochester Mills says it pairs best with savory desserts, like chocolate, cream, and fruit-based dishes.
“Empire Pale Ale” by Batch Brewing Company
Flamingo Fruit Flight from Bell’s Brewery. Photo courtesy of Bell’s Brewery.
At Batch Brewing Company, you can order beer and food to be picked up curbside at their Detroit location. That includes favorites, like the “Centennial Pils,” but also more seasonal brews, like the “Empire Pale Ale.” Taking its name from the Star Wars film, this brew combines the herbal bittering of Empire hops and a little citrus flavor with Michigan-grown Cascade. If you’re looking for an IPA, “Son of a Batch” is dry hopped with Belma and Ekuanot hops and smells of berries and melon. Act fast, though, as all products are available in a limited quantity.
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Remember to drink responsibly and plan ahead with a designated driver or take advantage of one of these local designated driving services.