Dark beers are often associated with winter months, high alcohol content, and thick, sweet flavors. However, this misconception overlooks the fact that dark beers can be enjoyed all year round, even during the summer. These beers can be refreshing, satisfying, and perfect for sipping on a hot sunny day.
One standout dark beer for the summer is the German brewed Kostriztzer schwarzbier. This black beer is often referred to as a “black pilsner” due to its refreshing qualities. Made with debittered dark malts, this beer allows the herbal hops to shine through while maintaining a light body. Enjoying a cold 500mL can of Kostriztzer schwarzbier outdoors on a summer day is a delightful experience, especially when paired with burgers or BBQ.
Jamaica introduces a surprising twist to the perception of dark beers with its tropical stout. This style of beer, stemming from European export stouts, is dark, fruity, and remarkably refreshing with a higher ABV of 7.5%. Dragon stout, produced by the same brewery as Red Stripe lager, is a prime example of a tropical stout that defies expectations.
For those seeking an authentic pub experience, a visit to Machine House in Seattle’s Hillman City neighborhood is a must. This brewery offers a unique setting where beers, including dark milds with flavors of toast, roasted coffee, and milk cocoa, are served on cask. The chill and relaxing vibe coupled with the lower carbonation levels make this spot ideal for enjoying a smooth and easy-to-drink beer even on hot summer days.
Schilling in Littleton, New Hampshire, is a lager-focused brewery that has gained a strong following for its Czech-style dark lager, Modernism. This beer, distributed throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and even as far west as Michigan, offers a refreshing take on dark lagers with Czech malt and hops, reminiscent of a lighter version of an American porter.
For fans of sour beers, La Folie is a classic choice worth exploring. Initially brewed by former New Belgium brewmaster Peter Bouckaert, this wood-aged sour brown ale features dark fruit, apple, and tart flavors. With a higher ABV of 6.5%, La Folie may surprise drinkers looking for a refreshing aperitif before dining al fresco.
Dark beers should not be dismissed as exclusively winter beverages. The wide variety of dark beers available offers unique and refreshing options for summer enjoyment. Whether sipping on a tropical stout, indulging in a dark lager, or exploring the complexities of a wood-aged sour ale, dark beers have something to offer for every beer enthusiast. So, next time you reach for a cold one, consider trying a dark beer and expand your summer beer horizons. Cheers!