The brewers at Samuel Adams recently announced the release of a new recipe for Summer Ale, and it’s the first recipe change in 23 years. The new Summer Ale has all the flavor drinkers know and love with a boosted citrus profile and scaled back earthy, spice note for a lighter and brighter taste.
The Sam Adams brewers knew they were taking a risk experimenting with an iconic recipe that for two decades has become the classic summer seasonal brew. Inspired by the warmer months of the season, they set out to experiment and capture lighter and brighter flavors and aromas, and even more summer refreshment.
The brewers added a handful of new citrus elements including orange, lime and lemon to enhance the citrus profile with the right balance of flavor and aromas. Amped up additions of pureed oranges, limes and lemons give more roundness to the profile of the new brew. The lemon puree pulls double duty by giving a taste like fresh lemon juice with an almost candied note that the brewers thought makes the beer even more drinkable.
Fans of this American wheat ale brewed in the Hefeweizen tradition will still enjoy the balanced notes of citrusy Hallertau Mittelfrüh Noble hops, hint of peppery spice from the Grains of Paradise and a crisp mouthfeel.
Jim Koch, Sam Adams founder and brewer, on New Summer Ale: “When we introduced Summer Ale 23 years ago it was inspired by the weather and ingredients of the season and had a dynamic flavor profile. As we started experimenting with the Summer Ale recipe, we decided to only update the classic recipe if we were blown away by the flavor and drinkability. With this new recipe, we found a way to give drinkers even more of what they know and love about Summer Ale.”
Summer Ale Availability: Summer Ale will be available beginning in April 1. The beer will be available in six-pack and twelve-pack bottles, twelve-pack cans,16-oz cans, draft and Summer Variety Packs. Prices vary by market.
This isn’t the only change rolling out this Summer. Summer Ale and Boston Lager are the first Sam Adams styles on U.S. shelves that feature new, redesigned packaging. Twelve- and six-packs will feature the iconic Samuel Adams blue. Other new details include images of the Sam Pint showcasing the color and corresponding haze of each beer, a youthful illustration of Samuel Adams the rebel rouser himself, and scripted text drawn in his original handwriting.
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