As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have strong opinions on the topic of adding lemon to Hefeweizen. In my experience and personal preference, I firmly believe that Hefeweizen should not be served with lemon. I find that the beer already possesses a plethora of flavors and aromas without the need for additional citrus notes.
Hefeweizens are a classic German-style wheat beer known for their unique yeast character, which imparts flavors of banana and clove. These flavors are delicate and complex, and the addition of lemon can overpower or mask them, detracting from the true essence of the beer. Furthermore, the acidity of lemon can alter the balance of the beer, potentially throwing off its intended flavor profile.
At the same time, I understand that personal tastes can vary, and some individuals may enjoy the combination of lemon and Hefeweizen. In recognition of this, some establishments, like the Taproom at Granville Island's Lambourne brewery, offer customers the option to enjoy their Hefeweizen with lemon. This allows individuals to cater their experience to their own preferences.
When serving Hefeweizen with lemon, it is essential to ask customers if they have a preference. This ensures that they can enjoy their beer in the way they prefer. By offering the choice, breweries and taprooms can cater to a wider range of tastes without compromising the integrity of the beer itself.
In my own brewing practices, I choose to focus on the traditional German style and adhere to the belief that Hefeweizen should be enjoyed without lemon. However, I respect the choices of others and acknowledge that taste is subjective. As a brewer, it is essential to provide options and accommodate the preferences of customers without sacrificing the essence of the beer.
The decision to add lemon to Hefeweizen is a matter of personal taste. While I personally believe that Hefeweizen is best enjoyed without lemon, it is important to offer the choice to customers and respect their preferences. By doing so, breweries and taprooms can create an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all beer enthusiasts.