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A six-pack taste test of the last of the summers

Published 11:29 am Friday, September 25, 2015

By Aaron Swaney Herald Writer

The last day of summer was Tuesday, a bright and beautiful Pacific Northwest day.

It’s been gray ever since. So I decided to pick myself up. I headed to my favorite bottleshop, Norm’s Market in Lake Stevens, and picked out six beers that remind me of summer. Here’s my thoughts:

Pfriem Pilsner

My love for Pfriem Family Brewers is well documented, and this pilsner doesn’t hurt it. Smells like a wildflower meadow with subtle bitter aftertaste. Perfect for a hot day — or any day really.

Note: It was a big winner at the Great American Beer Festival this weekend.

Reuben’s Summer IPA

Shockingly this was my first Reuben’s beer. Very drinkable with just a slight citrusy nose and finish. Good beer. I’ll be going back for more Reuben’s offerings.

Terminal Gravity Weed Wacker Summer Session Beer

Very light and drinkable beer. Didn’t have much of a hoppy finish and the mouthfeel was a bit watery. Not memorable, but not bad.

Green Flash Soul Style IPA

Lot of citrus and tropical flavors in this IPA from the hot San Diego brewery. If you like your IPAs West Coast and powerful, this is one to try.

Portland’s Summer S.M.A.S.H.

S.M.A.S.H. stands for single malt (Goldpils Vienna) and single hop (Simcoe). A clean beer with a slight hop finish and nice malty structure for a pale ale. It’s not going to knock your socks off, but it’s well done.

Fearless Brewing Peaches &Cream Ale

Really refreshing beer with a very light peach taste and aroma. Was the second-most popular beer at the 2013 Oregon Brewers Festival. Out of a can that’s surprising, but I could imagine it’s much better on tap.

Find Aaron’s beer notes at untappd.com.

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