What is citrus wheat?

Answered by John Watkins

Citrus wheat is a type of that combines the refreshing qualities of wheat beer with the bright and tangy flavors of citrus fruits, particularly tangerines. It is a light and easy-drinking beer that is perfect for warm weather or as a refreshing option when you're looking for a lighter beer choice.

One popular example of a citrus wheat beer is the Blue Moon Citrus Wheat. This beer is brewed with real tangerine peel, which adds a natural and authentic citrus flavor to the brew. The use of real tangerine peel sets it apart from other citrus wheat beers that may use artificial flavors or extracts.

The addition of tangerine peel gives the beer a unique twist on the traditional wheat beer style. Wheat beers are known for their smooth and slightly creamy mouthfeel, as well as their light and crisp character. The tangerine peel adds a citrusy brightness to the beer, enhancing its refreshing qualities and giving it a distinct flavor profile.

The use of tangerine peel also contributes to the overall aroma of the beer. When you take a whiff of a citrus wheat beer, you can expect to be greeted with a delightful citrusy scent that is both inviting and invigorating. This aroma adds to the overall sensory experience of drinking a citrus wheat beer.

One of the great things about citrus wheat beer is that it is often lower in calories compared to other beer styles. For instance, the Blue Moon Citrus Wheat is only 95 calories per serving. This makes it a popular choice for those who are watching their calorie intake or looking for a lighter beer option without sacrificing flavor.

Citrus wheat beer is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of foods. Its light and citrusy flavors make it a great match for seafood, particularly grilled fish or shrimp. It also complements lighter salads and citrus-infused dishes. The crisp and refreshing nature of the beer helps to cleanse the palate and balance out the flavors of the food.

Personally, I find citrus wheat beers to be a fantastic choice during the summer months. The combination of the wheat base and the citrus flavors makes for a truly refreshing and thirst-quenching beer. Whether enjoyed by the pool, at a backyard barbecue, or simply on a sunny day, citrus wheat beer is a perfect companion for summertime activities.

To sum up, citrus wheat beer is a light and refreshing beer style that combines the smoothness of wheat beer with the bright and tangy flavors of citrus fruits. Brewed with real tangerine peel, it offers a unique twist on the traditional wheat beer style, adding a refreshing citrusy twist. With its lower calorie content and versatile food pairings, citrus wheat beer is a fantastic choice for those seeking a lighter and flavorful beer option.