Lighten Up!

SPRING SEASONAL BEERS ARE HERE

Although the official day of spring is still a few days away, we’re already thinking about seasonal beers. The dark ambers and stouts of winter were hearty and filling, but the arrival of spring foretells lighter brews ahead. Anything with the words “crisp” and “refreshing” are just fine with us. Here is a list of some beers we are looking forward to this spring.

Little Hump Spring Ale / Highland Brewing Company / Asheville, NC

Highland Brewing Company is known for their award-winning lineup of beers and this pick definitely stacks up. Named after a mountain in Avery County, North Carolina, this brew boasts a floral hop aroma and slight bitterness, making it a great contender for your favorite spring arrival. The finish is crisp and clean and will pair well with light appetizer fare or even a good burger. 4.5% ABV

Spring IPA / Abita Brewing Company / Covington, LA

While made in the South, this IPA looks to the West coast for its inspiration. Robust hop flavor hits you right up-front, but the beer mellows out with a slight sweetness and citrus notes. Abita recommends pairing it with sharp cheeses, like cheddar or goat, along with spicy Mexican food. Sounds like it will be ideal for your Cinco de Mayo party! 6.25% ABV

Lucky SOB, Irish Red Ale / Flying Dog Brewery / Frederick, MD

Understandably, the name may be a bit much, but the beer more than stands up to its name. More malt than hops, this is the beer to bring to your St. Patrick’s Day festivities. You’ll be treated to a nutty, almost earthy taste, with pleasant hints of honey, not to mention good luck—it’s brewed with real four-leaf clovers. Cheers to that! 5.5% ABV

Washout Wheat / Holy City Brewing / Charleston, SC

No, no, the flavors of this beer are certainly not washed out. In fact, they have been curated to perfection. You won’t find traditional wheat beer ingredients like coriander and orange peel, instead you’ll be surprised by the inherent goodness of two prime ingredients—wheat and yeast. Banana, clove, and vanilla come to mind right before the flawlessly smooth finish to this Hefewizen. This one is a treat for warmer weather. 5.3% ABV

Southern Hops’pitality / Lazy Magnolia Brewing Company / Kiln, MS

Now this is right up our alley. Not only perfect to serve guests (to match your charming Southern hospitality), it’s the ultimate beer to enjoy relaxing on the porch any warm afternoon. Citrusy notes are the first to appear, followed by tropical fruit flavors such as pineapple. You’ll find lots of hops in this beautiful straw-colored brew. 6% ABV