Sweetwater Brewing Waterkeeper Hefeweizen
The Hefeweizen. Bringer of clove and banana. It’s a style of beer that I rarely, if ever, go out of my way to order or purchase, but seems that on those few occasions I happen to crack one open (usually on a hot weekend afternoon) I can think of nothing better to sit back and enjoy — it just suits the weather and seems to have impeccable timing. Sweetwater Brewing’s Waterkeeper Hefeweizen hits the spot in a similar fashion.
This 5.7% ABV Hefeweizen is part of the brewery’s “Save Our Water” campaign and returns for another round in its Catch and Release seasonal lineup. Waterkeeper Hefeweizen is a smooth drinking example of the style with moderate banana phenols, a touch of clove and a welcome amount of citrusy hop notes to reinvigorate the taste buds. I may have received this sample from the company, but it’s arrival and refreshing nature apparently was just what I needed the other day.
Appearance
A large, frothy cap of white foam sits atop the hazy, golden brew. It certainly looks inviting.
Aroma
The wheat/grain character, as expected, is dominant while a soft, yeasty banana presence and subtle spice notes linger gently in the mix. It’s not as strong in the banana realm as some examples of the style. A touch of light, lemony citrus comes and goes, as well.
Taste
This beer has a good amount going on within its hazy depths: yeasty banana, fruity esters, wheat, grain, a light citrus hop character, white pepper and subtle clove all come together homogeneously. The beer’s soft mouthfeel carries the flavors over the tongue to a lingering, dry finish where a gentle hop bitterness settles in. Quite drinkable and refreshing.
Overall
I don’t know what it is about these beers, and Waterkeeper Hefeweizen is no different, but they just seem to be the right beer for the time whenever I crack one open. I don’t seek out the style at bars or stores, but perhaps I should start. They seem to be worming their way into my normal drinking routine. Perhaps it’s just seasonality. I’ll just crack open another Waterkeepr Hefeweizen and not worry about it too much.
Rating: 3.75/5
This is a review of a promotional sample from the brewery.
