It’s Thursday night and we’re back from baseball practice. I was looking for a lighter, but still flavorful, beer as a refreshing relaxer. I find that Spoetzl’s Shiner beers usually fit that category, so I thought I’d give this one a try. I believe I got this beer from my friend Betty, as part of a mixed six-pack of Shiner beers when she moved from Austin last year.
Location: Poured into a Stella Artois chalice at my home in Bloomington, IL.
Numbers: 5% ABV, ~ 150 Calories
Appearance & Aroma: It’s bright, like a brand new copper penny, and some great clarity. It had a big head at first, but it fell pretty quickly to just a ring of tiny bubbles around the edge of the glass. There’s a light, caramel lager-like aroma.
Taste & Feel: The body is light and the mouthfeel is smooth, but slightly crisp from carbonation. There’s a lightly bready and malty caramel flavor up front, with more caramel maltiness coming in during the middle. The caramel maltiness is joined by some earthy, noble-hop-like bitterness in the background of the finish. The light caramel maltiness sticks around in the aftertaste for a brief time.
Food Pairing: The light caramel maltiness goes perfectly with a burger or steak. With this type of beer, I enjoy how the maltiness mixes with both the breadiness of the hamburger bun, and the juiciness of the beef.
Overall Impression: I thought this was a very drinkable beer. It was light, but it had just the right amount of caramel malty character to make it flavorful, but easy drinking. I guess it’s a lager (like most Shiner beers), but I’m not sure if it would be considered a maibock or marzen… even if reminded me of one. Overall, it had a good flavor, was light and drinkable, and is one I’d reach for on a hot day.
My Rating: 
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