Outside of bourbon, the editors of Brostrick love all things beer related. So it only made sense to debut our newest franchise “Bros & Brews” where we cover some of our favorite beers, beer pairings and everything in between. Got a beer recommendation or question for our editors? Ask us at feedback@brostrick.com
Orange slices and beer? It might sound unconventional, but this zesty combination is a match made in beer heaven! We’re all used to tossing a lime into our beer, but the citrusy burst of an orange can enhance the flavors of certain beers, adding a refreshing twist that makes each sip just…way better.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a summer barbecue, these beers chosen by the Brostrick editors paired with a slice of orange will bring your beer flavors to a whole new level!
1. Blue Moon Belgian White
Blue Moon Belgian White is an iconic Belgian-style wheat ale known for its smooth, creamy mouthfeel and subtle sweetness. This beer is brewed with Valencia orange peel, which gives it a natural citrus aroma and flavor right off the bat.
Adding a slice of orange to Blue Moon amplifies these citrus notes, making each sip more vibrant and refreshing. The orange slice also enhances the beer’s coriander spice undertones, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Its light body and moderate carbonation make it exceptionally drinkable, especially on hot summer days.
The orange slice not only complements the beer’s inherent citrus character but also adds a fresh, zesty twist that brightens up the palate, making Blue Moon an ideal choice for those seeking a flavorful yet refreshing beer experience.
FUN FACT
The brewery originally suggested the orange slice garnish to emphasize the beer’s natural flavors.
2. Shock Top Belgian White
Shock Top Belgian White is another stellar example of a Belgian-style wheat beer, known for its unfiltered haziness and unique blend of flavors. Brewed with citrus peels and coriander, this beer has a zesty, slightly spicy profile that’s perfectly suited for an orange garnish.
The addition of an orange slice enhances the citrusy elements already present in the beer, elevating its refreshing qualities. The beer’s smooth, slightly creamy mouthfeel is complemented by the juicy, tangy burst from the orange, creating a well-rounded and invigorating drinking experience. The natural sweetness of the orange slice balances the subtle spice from the coriander, adding depth to each sip.
Shock Top’s combination of malt sweetness, citrus zest, and spice makes it an excellent candidate for an orange slice, transforming it into a vibrant and refreshing beverage that’s perfect for just about any occasion.
FUN FACT
Shock Top’s signature unfiltered haze and unique flavors make it stand out among wheat beers.
3. Hoegaarden White
Hoegaarden White is a traditional Belgian witbier that has been enjoyed for centuries. Known for its light, zesty, and slightly spicy flavor profile, Hoegaarden is brewed with a blend of wheat, coriander, and Curaçao orange peel.
The natural citrus notes from the orange peel are beautifully complemented by adding a fresh orange slice. This not only enhances the beer’s inherent citrus flavors but also adds a refreshing burst of juiciness that makes each sip even more enjoyable. The subtle spice from the coriander and the beer’s smooth, creamy texture create a delightful contrast with the tangy sweetness of the orange.
Hoegaarden’s complex yet approachable flavor profile, combined with the refreshing qualities of an orange slice, makes it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated yet easy-drinking beer during the warmer months.
FUN FACT
Hoegaarden is one of the oldest witbiers, with a history dating back to the 15th century.
4. Allagash White
Allagash White is a Belgian-style wheat beer that stands out for its complex blend of citrus and spice flavors. Brewed with a careful selection of coriander and Curaçao orange peel, this beer has a natural citrusy aroma and a slightly spicy finish.
Adding a slice of orange to Allagash White enhances its citrus notes, bringing forward the sweet and tangy flavors of the orange peel used in brewing. The orange slice also adds a fresh, juicy element that complements the beer’s creamy mouthfeel and light body. The subtle spice from the coriander is balanced by the sweetness of the orange, creating a harmonious and refreshing flavor profile.
The beer’s moderate carbonation and smooth finish make it exceptionally drinkable, especially when paired with the bright, zesty burst from the orange slice. This combination transforms Allagash White into a vibrant and invigorating beverage that’s perfect for enjoying on a sunny day.
FUN FACT
Allagash White is brewed using a traditional Belgian recipe, ensuring an authentic taste experience.
5. Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy
Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy is a delightful blend of beer and natural lemonade flavor, making it an incredibly refreshing choice for hot summer days. The addition of an orange slice to this shandy amplifies its citrusy notes, adding a layer of sweet, tangy freshness that enhances its overall flavor profile.
The orange slice complements the lemonade’s zesty characteristics, creating a more complex and refreshing drinking experience. The beer’s light body and moderate carbonation make it easy to drink, while the citrusy burst from the orange adds a refreshing twist that keeps each sip lively and invigorating.
The combination of lemonade and orange creates a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors, making Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a fruity, refreshing beer that’s perfect for summer.
FUN FACT
Shandy is a popular summer drink in Europe, often made by mixing beer with lemonade or soda.
6. Blue Point Blueberry Ale
Blue Point Blueberry Ale is a unique and flavorful ale that combines the sweetness of blueberries with a light malt body. The addition of an orange slice provides a zesty contrast that complements the natural blueberry notes, creating a balanced and refreshing flavor profile.
The orange slice enhances the beer’s citrus undertones, adding a burst of tanginess that brightens up the sweetness of the blueberries. The beer’s light body and moderate carbonation make it easy to drink, while the combination of blueberry and orange creates a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors.
This pairing transforms Blue Point Blueberry Ale into a vibrant and invigorating beverage that’s perfect for enjoying on a warm sunny day.
FUN FACT
Blue Point Brewing Company was founded in 1998 and has been known for its creative and flavorful brews.
7. Samuel Adams Summer Ale
Sam Adams Summer Ale is a crisp and refreshing wheat ale brewed with lemon zest and grains of paradise. These ingredients give the beer a unique blend of citrus and spice flavors, making it an excellent candidate for an orange slice.
The addition of an orange slice enhances the beer’s citrusy notes, adding a burst of sweetness and tanginess that complements the lemon zest and spices. The orange slice also adds a fresh, juicy element that balances the beer’s malt sweetness and spicy undertones. The beer’s light body and moderate carbonation make it exceptionally drinkable, especially when paired with the bright, zesty burst from the orange slice. This combination transforms Sam Adams Summer Ale into a vibrant and refreshing beverage that’s perfect for enjoying on a hot day…or any day for that matter.
FUN FACT
Grains of paradise are a rare spice from Africa, adding a unique peppery and citrusy flavor to the beer.
Let's Call It a Day
These beers, paired with a slice of orange, offer a refreshing and flavorful twist that’s perfect for sipping on the perfectly sunny day. The citrusy burst of orange enhances the natural flavors of these beers, adding a layer of freshness and vibrancy that makes each sip better than the previous.
Whether you’re enjoying a barbecue, a picnic, or a relaxing day by the pool, these combos will keep you coming back for more.
Fun Fact Sources:
Some of the “Fun Facts” were sourced from the following websites:
