Favorite Summer beers

I would like someone to explain to me the characteristics this beer has that makes it a kolsch besides the brewer saying it is. Nothing like any kolsch I've ever had - its more of a light brown/amber ale with a nutty/caramel malt character - and I don't find it all that drinkable either for a summer beer. I review a dozen or so local summer beers each year and Geary's always ends up towards the bottom. But if you like it for what it is, that's cool, just not sure it is the realm of the kolsch style.

 

I'm all about refreshing CANNED beers in the summer. Pool-side, beach-side, tailgate. Brooklyn Summer and Gannsett Summer are the winners for me.

If I add bottles I'm all about Victory Summer Love.

 

Hmm, haven't noticed any butter flavor yet...or at least it didn't scream out to me.

Has anyone else noticed that in Peak's stuff? Maybe my diacetyl radar isn't as good as others (though I definitely get it with Shipyard). Generally, I find Peak's beers to taste pleasantly clean.

 

FYI (as you're probably aware), Peak is brewed at Shipyard. Personally, I have detected diacetyl in at least one beer from every "brewery" that brews on Shipyard's gear. personally, i don't drink any of that crap willingly except ice, ice cold Shipyard Export on draft (maybe Old Thumper if I'm feeling masochistic), and Gritty's on draft (not brewed at Shipyard, although sadly the bottles are). I guess the Simcoe Spring's pretty good too. but yeah, I get diacetyl in the summer session pretty hard.

 

Ganny Summer has been a staple for me the last couple years although I bought a 12 pack of this earlier in the week and its gunna be good for the hot weather

 

Interesting, I'll have to pay closer attention to it the next time I have it...

 

As far as "summer seasonals" it starts and ends with Gansett summer for me. Cost/Quality wise it is such a damn nice beer. But I had serious man crush on Lagunitas Daytime last year. Just sorry I didn't try it earlier in the season.

 

berkshire brewing czech pilsner.

(speaking of which, this beer needs to be canned and then kept on hand at all times for hot days)