Schlafly / The Saint Louis Brewery Summer Lager
What the brewers say
“Our Helles-Style Summer Lager is a bright, golden beer, perfect for summertime. The malts we use impart a wonderful, fresh grain character, reminiscent of European lagers. The German Noble hop, Mittelfrüh, lends a mild lemony, spicy flavor.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Sweet malty aroma. Light citrus herbal hop aroma, with a subtle pils malt background and some sulfur notes. Malty, sweet, and bready. Moderately strong diacetyl and a hint of grassy hops.”
Flavor: “Light, bready malt with crisp lemon notes that finishes tart. Thin body, verging on watery and noticeable diacetyl. There’s a bit of pils malt underneath the butter, but I have to look for it. Finishes sweet.”
Overall: “Refreshing, but the tart finish detracts from the expected bready malt characteristics. This is a neutral light lager that’s easy to drink—slightly bitter for the style, but good flavor.”