Sommer Fling

Sommer Fling by Smartmouth Brewing Company is a hefeweizen judged as a weissbeer (BJCP sub-style 10A). It poured a pale straw color into the glass where it set up distinctly cloudy with a thick white head that dissipated quickly. The aroma featured both intense banana esters and grainy wheat notes. Banana and wheat were also the dominant flavors up front with muted clove phenols arriving later. There was no hop flavor or aroma, only a small bittering contribution to balance the sweetness from the grains and yeast. Palate sensations included modest carbonation, low alcohol strength and creaminess on the tongue. Overall, this hefeweizen was simple, clean, and refreshing.  Its easy drinkability is undeniable, confirming that some beers make simplicity a virtue unto itself, as long as they are brewed well to style.