Crisp and fruity, Peak's Summer Session shines

Crisp and fruity, Peak's Summer Session shines peak-summer-session.jpg
May 2, 2011 By Chris Maza Reminder Assistant Editor It's not officially summer, but on April 26 the weather got into the 80s, so I feel writing about a summer style beer is à propos. I have to say that I find summer ales for the most part pretty hit or miss with many of them lacking the flavor and character that makes for a good beer. That being said, I enjoy Samuel Adams' take on the style and in the past have made that my go-to option. That may change now that I have tasted Peak Organic Brewing Company's Summer Session Ale. I've written about Peak Organic in the past, praising them for their Nut Brown Ale and Pale Ales. This company is quickly becoming one of my favorites and I can't wait to have the opportunity to try their TAZA Chocolate Imperial Stout, which is on tap at the Eastside Grille in Northampton. But for now, let's focus on the Summer Session. I tried this beer as part of a Peak Organic variety pack that also included the IPA, the Nut Brown Ale and the Pale Ale. My fiancée and I — who both gave up beer for 40 days — were looking for a tasty reward for our Lenten sacrifice. At $13.99 for the 12-pack, Peak Organic proved to be an affordable — and delicious — option. With nice amber coloring and a somewhat "hoppy" and "citrusy" scent, the beer almost begs to be drunk. A light-bodied beer, it's easy to drink with light carbonation. The citrus and wheat flavors meld with the hops that tends to linger on the back end and finishes crisp. When you think of sitting back on your porch with a ballgame on the radio and the kids running through the sprinkler out front, this is the beer you should be thinking about. Its crisp, refreshing taste and light body make for the perfect compliment to a warm spring or summer day. Plus, at a similar price to Samuel Adams with a responsible 5 percent alcohol by volume, it won't hurt you or your wallet to enjoy a few while grilling by the pool. I don't give a rating system, but if I did, this would be a four star beer, providing a boatload of taste that is so often lacking in summer ales, while maintaining a light body. Bravo, Peak Organic. You've done it again. Bookmark and Share