Sips of Summer: 6 Seasonal Craft Beers You Need to Try Now

Summer is the perfect season to explore vibrant, refreshing craft beers that capture the essence of warm, sunny days and cool, relaxing evenings. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a backyard barbecue, or just unwinding after a long day, a great seasonal beer can elevate the experience.

If you’re searching for fresh and flavorful options, River Barrel’s portfolio offers an impressive variety of seasonal summer craft beers designed to please every palate. From bright and citrusy IPAs to crisp lagers and tangy fruited sours, these brews are crafted to keep you refreshed and satisfied all season long.

In this guide, we spotlight six standout beer styles from River Barrel’s brands that you absolutely need to try this summer.

1. Citrus IPA – Bright, Bold, and Refreshing

Nothing says summer like a citrusy IPA. These beers are bursting with flavors of grapefruit, orange, and tropical fruits that provide a crisp and invigorating taste. Stemma Brewing's Shelter Hazy IPA or Trap Door Brewing's Glowed Up IPA are great examples to try this summer!

2. Crisp Lager – Light and Easy-Drinking

A well-crafted lager is the go-to summer beer for those seeking something light yet flavorful. Some great examples are Single Hill Brewing's Adams Pilsner or Future Primitive Pilsner. These beers pair well with a variety of summer foods like grilled chicken, seafood, and fresh salads.

3. Fruited Sour – Tart, Tangy, and Delicious

For those who enjoy a little zing, fruited sours offer a delightful combination of tartness and fruit flavors. Fruited sour selections often feature ingredients like raspberries, cherries, or passion fruit, delivering a refreshing and complex profile that stands out on a hot summer day. Try out Little Beast's Electric Sunshine Sour or Sig Brewing's rotating fruited sours for some tasty options from our portfolio!

4. Wheat Ale – Smooth and Creamy with a Hint of Spice

Wheat ales are a summer staple for their smooth texture and subtle flavors of citrus and spice. Wheat ales often showcase notes of coriander and orange peel, enhancing their refreshing qualities and making them an excellent choice for warm-weather sipping. Triceratops & Ancestry Brewing make some delicious varieties each summer to check out!

5. Blonde Ale – Easy-Drinking and Approachable

Blonde ales are often overlooked but are fantastic for summer due to their mild maltiness and subtle hop presence. Blondes are smooth and easy-drinking, making them an excellent introduction to craft beer for newcomers and a refreshing choice for experienced enthusiasts. Terramar Brewstillery's Number 6 Blonde Ale is a perfect example of this style.

6. Saisons & Wild Ales – Complex and Effervescent

Saisons & wild ales are farmhouse ales celebrated for their spicy, fruity, and subtly funky flavors. These beers bring a complex flavor profile that combines a dry finish with lively carbonation. These beers are fantastic for those who want a sophisticated summer sip with layers of flavor. Check out options such as Garden Path, De Garde Brewing & Alesong Brewing for tasty varieties this summer!

Why Choose Seasonal Summer Craft Beers from River Barrel?

River Barrel’s portfolio of seasonal beers is thoughtfully curated to highlight the flavors and styles that shine in summer. Their brands dedication to quality brewing and innovative recipes ensures every sip is refreshing and satisfying.

Whether you prefer the bright zest of a citrusy IPA or the tangy complexity of a fruited sour, River Barrel offers something for every summer beer lover.

How to Enjoy These Summer Craft Beers

• Pair with Seasonal Foods: Think grilled seafood, fresh salads, and light appetizers that complement the beer’s flavor profile.

• Serve Cold: Most of these beers are best enjoyed chilled to enhance their refreshing qualities.

• Try a Variety: Sampling different styles from River Barrel’s portfolio is a great way to find your summer favorite.

• Share with Friends: Summer is about enjoying good times together, so gather your crew for a tasting session.

Seasonal Summer Craft Beers from River Barrel

Summer is a season made for savoring great craft beer, and River Barrel’s selection offers a perfect lineup to keep your taste buds delighted. Whether you crave the bright, citrusy punch of an IPA or the smooth, approachable flavors of a blonde ale, these seasonal beers provide something for every occasion.

By exploring River Barrel’s portfolio, you can discover new favorites that complement your summer activities and create memorable moments with friends and family. So stock your fridge, grab your glass, and toast to a summer filled with refreshing sips and good company.