Who needs air conditioning when you’ve got beer? Does air conditioning taste cool, crisp and refreshing? Does it complete your barbecues? Do you bond with buddies over air conditioning? We didn’t think so. Here, Toronto’s best summer beers.
Lake of Bays Pale Ale
The flagship brand of Muskoka’s newest microbrewery, this golden ale is popping up in pubs around the GTA. The mild hop presence will appeal to people put off by bolder microbrews. Pick up a case at the cottage liquor store, or try a pint at the Duke of York. Duke of York, 39 Prince Arthur Ave., 416- 964-2441.
Creemore Springs Kellerbier
This unfiltered, German-inspired beer boasts a complex spicy, citrusy flavour, making it the perfect BBQ accompaniment. It’s lightly carbonated and pours a rich copper hue. Available at most LCBOs.
Amsterdam Oranje Weisse
Returning for a second year, this Belgian-style witbier has been tweaked slightly to increase the natural haze and heighten the citrus notes. A distinctive blend of coriander and orange evokes the two types of orange peels used. For the best deal, stock up at the brewery. Available till September. Amsterdam Brewery, 21 Bathurst St., 416-504-1040.
Mill Street Lemon Tea Beer
This flavoured wheat beer is contentious among purists, but the slightly sweet, oddly familiar blend of organic cane sugar, lemon and orange pekoe tea simply works. Mill Street Brew Pub, 55 Mill Street, Building 63, 416-681-0338 and most LCBOs.
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Image by John Spence.
