As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate a wide range of beers. When it comes to beers with orange flavor, there are a few options that come to mind.
1. Witbier: Witbier, also known as Belgian white beer, is a style that is often brewed with orange peel and coriander. This combination gives the beer a refreshing citrusy aroma and flavor. One of the most famous examples of a witbier is Hoegaarden, which has distinct notes of orange and spices.
2. Fruit-infused beers: Many breweries nowadays experiment with adding various fruits to their beer, including orange. These fruit-infused beers can range from light and crisp to bold and complex. Some brewers use orange zest or juice to infuse their beer with a bright, citrusy flavor. One example is Blue Moon Belgian White, which is brewed with Valencia orange peel for a subtle orange taste.
3. Hefeweizen: Hefeweizen, a traditional German wheat beer, often exhibits banana and clove flavors. However, some breweries also incorporate orange zest or juice into their hefeweizens, resulting in a delightful blend of fruity and spicy notes. Schneider Weisse Tap 7 Mein Original is a classic example of a hefeweizen that showcases hints of orange alongside the traditional banana and clove characteristics.
4. IPA with Citra hops: Citra hops, a popular hop variety, can impart tropical and citrusy flavors to beers. Some IPAs brewed with Citra hops can exhibit pronounced orange flavors, reminiscent of orange zest or even orange juice. These beers often have a refreshing bitterness that complements the citrus notes. One example is Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, which showcases the bright, juicy flavors of Citra hops.
5. Sour beers: Certain sour beer styles, such as Berliner Weisse or Gose, can be brewed with fruits, including oranges. These beers typically have a tart and acidic profile, with the orange providing a balancing sweetness and citrus character. Westbrook Gose, for instance, is a gose-style beer that is brewed with orange zest, resulting in a tangy and zesty flavor profile.
It's worth noting that the intensity of the orange flavor can vary among different beer styles and brands. Some beers may have a subtle hint of orange, while others may have a more pronounced and dominant orange character. Additionally, the brewing process and ingredients used can also influence the final flavor profile of the beer.
In my personal experience, I have enjoyed beers with orange flavor in a variety of settings. Whether it's sipping a refreshing witbier on a sunny patio or exploring the complex flavors of a fruit-infused IPA, the addition of orange can add a delightful twist to the beer-drinking experience.
There is a diverse range of beers that incorporate orange flavor, from traditional Belgian styles to modern fruit-infused creations. Exploring these options can be a fun and flavorful journey for beer enthusiasts looking to try something new and exciting.