New Belgium Fat Tire is not a wheat beer. It is actually an amber ale, which is a style of beer that typically has a medium to dark amber color and a malty flavor profile. Wheat beers, on the other hand, are brewed with a significant amount of wheat in addition to barley malt.
Fat Tire is known for its balanced blend of toasty biscuit-like malt flavors and a touch of hop bitterness. It has a medium body and a smooth, easy-drinking character that makes it a popular choice among beer enthusiasts.
I remember the first time I tried Fat Tire. It was a warm summer evening, and I was sitting outside at a local brewery with some friends. The amber color of the beer caught my eye, and I decided to give it a try. The first sip was incredibly satisfying, with a rich malty sweetness that was perfectly complemented by the subtle hop bitterness. It had a smooth mouthfeel and a slightly dry finish, making it incredibly refreshing on that hot summer day.
The use of Seville orange peel and freshly ground coriander in a wheat beer, however, is a common practice. These ingredients add a unique citrusy and spicy flavor to the beer, enhancing its overall complexity.
Wheat beers are typically light and refreshing, with a smooth and creamy mouthfeel. They often have a slightly fruity or spicy aroma, with flavors ranging from banana and clove to citrus and coriander, depending on the specific style. The addition of wheat to the grain bill also contributes to a hazy appearance in the beer.
One famous example of a wheat beer is the classic German Hefeweizen. This style is known for its distinctive banana and clove esters, which are produced by the yeast during fermentation. Hefeweizens are often enjoyed with a slice of lemon or orange to further enhance the fruity flavors.
While New Belgium Fat Tire is not a wheat beer, it is still a delicious and well-crafted amber ale. Its balanced flavor profile and easy-drinking nature make it a favorite among beer lovers. If you're in the mood for a wheat beer, however, there are plenty of other options to explore, such as Hefeweizens, Witbiers, and American Wheat Ales.