Once again, it is hot in Vancouver, and even hotter in the Fraser Valley. I’m not complaining, the heat is nice, but it is hot. All meals are now cooked outside on the grill, the oven is officially off limits, and all beer must be served cold. This kind of heat leaves no room for cellar temperature ales – if a darker beer is a must, I recommend pairing it with some cool vanilla ice cream to make a beer float.

Lager, Alt/Kolsch, Blonde Ale and the occasional Pale Ale are all far more affordable than buying a brand new air conditioner, plus they are far tastier. Here are a couple of great summer beers that may help you keep cool.

• Surgenor Steam Donkey Lager. A great pilsner style lager.
• Lost Coast Tangerine Wheat Ale. I was have never been all that fond of fruit beers, Lost Coast has made me a believer.
• Mission Springs Blonde Bombshell. I have found there to be some consistency issues from bottle to bottle, but when it is right, it is a delicious blonde ale.
• Yaletown Brewing Raspberry Wheat Ale. If you find yourself in Yaletown it is well worth a taste. I’m not sure how long this one will be around for, so don’t wait too long.
• Mt. Begbie High Country Kolsch. A great example of a German kolsch.
• Central City Brewing Spring Board Lager. A well priced craft brewed lager, Central City’s brewmaster, Gary Lohin, can do no wrong.

Feel free to comment on any of your favorite summer beers.

Cheers,

Erik