Brewmaster Dave Ohmer’s Top 3 Picks for Summer Craft Beers

There’s nothing like a cold beer on a hot day! But what makes a beer well-suited to lazy summer days by the beach or BBQ grill? We asked Brewmaster Dave Ohmer of Whole Foods Market® Brewing Company for some recommendations on summer suds.

There’s nothing like a cold beer on a hot day!

There’s nothing like a cold beer on a hot day! But what makes a beer well-suited to lazy summer days by the beach or BBQ grill? We asked Brewmaster Dave Ohmer of Whole Foods Market® Brewing Company for some recommendations on summer suds.

But first: a caveat. Ohmer came to Whole Foods Market’s first in-store brewery with more than 13 years of experience in the craft brewing industry. He’s a firm believer in drinking local beers with handcrafted character, and his first advice is to explore what your local craft breweries have to offer.

Need help finding a local option that reflects Dave’s picks? Ask one of our knowledgeable team members in the beer section of your local store*!

Session IPA

“Summer is a great time for hoppy beers. I’m a big fan of session IPAs. They have all the hop flavor and aroma of a regular IPA, but they’re lighter in body, and lower in alcohol content for easy drinking.”

Example: Firestone Walker Brewing Company’s Easy Jack IPA

German Kölsch

“This light-tasting hybrid ale with lager features is a summer favorite. It has a slightly bready character. It’s lightly hopped, slightly fruity, and really clean tasting.”

Example: Karbach Brewing Company’s Lovestreet Kölsch Style Blonde

Berliner Weisse

“This sour wheat beer from Germany is lower in alcohol content for easy drinking. It’s refreshingly tart with almost no hop bitterness.”

Example: Evil Twin Brewing Company’s Nomader Weisse

Feeling thirsty? Visit your Whole Foods Market store and ask the folks in the beer section to show you their favorite session IPA, German Kölsch or Berliner Weisse.

*Some of our stores are prohibited by local law from selling beer. You can always reach out and check with your local store opens in a new tab.

Do you have a favorite summer craft beer? Share your tasting notes in the comments!

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