Brewery Name and Location: Alaskan Brewing Company – Juneau, Alaska
Name of Brew: Summer Ale
Style of Brew: Kölsch beer
ABV: 5.3%
The summer seasonals might be my favorite type of beer to try out. You’re usually going to get something a little on the lite side, but still be flavorful – most have some sort of fruit taste to them. A couple months back Mitch tried out the Sam Adams Summer Ale, which was definitely closer to a hefeweizen. The Alaskan Summer Ale carries a similar fruit taste, but since it’s based on the German-style Kölsch beer is clear with a well-balanced flavor that isn’t too strong.
Here’s the flavor profile from the Alaskan Web site:
Alaskan Summer Ale balances a softly malted palate with the clean freshness of hops. In the tradition of the style, neither overpowers the other. Both hops and malt come together to refresh and renew the palate. The straw-gold color and easy drinkability are an enjoyable way to celebrate summer.
Of course, coming from Alaska, they recommend to pair the Summer Ale with a number of different seafood or salads.
I would also like to give the Alaskan Brewing Company credit, some brewers will adjust their summer brew every season, whereas Alaskan has found a brew they like and have kept it around for a dozen years now. It’s a fail-safe choice every summer. Alaskan will be at the Portland Brewfest this evening and I be sure to tell them this in person.
