A Berliner drink refers to Berliner Weisse, a type of beer that originated in Berlin, Germany. Berliner Weisse is a tart and refreshing beer known for its low alcohol content and unique flavor profile. It is a wheat beer that is typically light in color and has a cloudy appearance.
One of the defining characteristics of Berliner Weisse is its sourness. The beer is brewed using a combination of yeast and lactic acid bacteria, which gives it a distinct tartness. This sourness is balanced by a light and crisp body, making Berliner Weisse a very refreshing and easy-drinking beer.
Traditionally, Berliner Weisse is served with flavored syrups to cut through the sourness and add a touch of sweetness. The two most common syrups used are red raspberry syrup and green woodruff syrup. These syrups are added to the beer in small quantities, allowing the drinker to customize the level of sweetness to their liking.
The addition of syrup not only adds sweetness but also imparts additional flavors to the beer. The red raspberry syrup lends a fruity and slightly tangy taste, while the green woodruff syrup provides a herbal and grassy flavor. These syrups complement the tartness of the Berliner Weisse, creating a well-balanced and refreshing beverage.
In recent years, Berliner Weisse has experienced a resurgence in popularity, both in Germany and internationally. Craft breweries have embraced this style and are producing their own interpretations of Berliner Weisse. This has led to a wide range of variations and flavor combinations, with brewers experimenting with different fruits, herbs, and spices to create unique and exciting Berliner Weisse beers.
If you're looking to try a Berliner drink, I would recommend checking with your local breweries or craft beer bars to see if they have any Berliner Weisse offerings. It can be a delightful experience to explore the different flavors and variations of this traditional German beer style.