Two Pitchers Brewing Co., based in Oakland, California has carved out a niche for itself with inventive, refreshing beer blends. Their flagship radler, Week-Ender, combines a crisp lager with grapefruit and blood orange juice to create a summer-ready, fruit-forward beer. Here’s a review of this interesting take on a radler.
Appearance Rating – 7.5/10
Week-Ender pours a hazy, golden-orange hue with a frothy white head that dissipates fairly quickly. The color is vibrant and immediately suggests the fresh, citrus-forward profile the beer promises. It’s an eye catching pour, though the haziness might be slightly unexpected for a radler. Some drinkers might anticipate to be clearer.
Aroma Rating – 8.5/10
The nose is dominated by citrus, such as ripe grapefruit, zesty blood orange, and a hint of lemon zest. There’s also a subtle sweetness that hints at the lager base but doesn’t overwhelm. The aroma is bright, refreshing, and inviting, perfect for warm weather.
Flavor Rating – 8/10
On the palate, Week-Ender strikes a pleasant balance between tart and sweet. The grapefruit and blood orange are bold and juicy, bringing a natural citrus zing. The lager base adds a gentle malt backbone, lending just enough substance without overshadowing the fruit. There’s a slight bitterness on the finish that rounds out the sweetness nicely, though it might be a touch sharper than some radler fans expect.
While the flavor is vibrant, it leans heavily on the fruit, leaving the lager somewhat overshadowed. Beer purists might wish for a more pronounced malt or hop presence to complement the citrus notes.
Mouthfeel Rating – 7/10
Light bodied and effervescent, Week-Ender has a lively carbonation that enhances its refreshing nature. The slightly dry finish keeps it from feeling cloying, making it a solid option for sipping on a hot day. However, some might find the mouthfeel a bit thin, especially if they’re accustomed to fuller bodied beers.
Final Rating – 7.5/10
Week-Ender is a bright, refreshing radler that excels at being exactly what it sets out to be…an easy-drinking, citrus-forward beer designed for sunny afternoons and outdoor gatherings. The grapefruit and blood orange shine, making this an ideal choice for those who enjoy fruit-heavy beers or are new to craft beer.
However, for traditionalists or those looking for a more beer-forward radler, Week-Ender might feel more like a sparkling fruit beverage with a hint of beer rather than a true beer blend. That said, it’s a fun, creative option that embodies Two Pitchers Brewing’s mission to experiment and play with flavors.
Interesting Fact
Two Pitchers Brewing Co started with the goal of creating beer blends that could bring new energy to the craft beer scene, and their radlers reflect this innovative spirit. Week-Ender is a great example of their ability to deliver something both refreshing and distinctive.
If you’ve tried Two Pitchers’ Week-Ender, please share your thoughts about it in the comments below.
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