Beer with an Orange Slice

Beer with an orange slice is a unique and refreshing drink that has been gaining popularity in recent years.

The addition of an orange slice to beer is not a new concept, but it has become increasingly popular as more people discover the refreshing taste of this combination.

The tradition of serving beer with an orange slice dates back to the 16th century in Belgium, where it was believed that adding an orange slice to beer enhanced its flavor. Today, this practice is still common in many parts of the world, and there are several types of beer that are best served with an orange slice.

Belgian or wheat beers like Blue Moon or Hoegaarden are among the most popular types of beer that are served with an orange slice. These beers are brewed with citrus peels and coriander, and the addition of an orange slice can really enhance these flavors. However, there are many other types of beer that can be served with an orange slice, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

History and Tradition

Adding an orange slice to beer is a practice with a rich history and tradition. The combination of beer and citrus has been popular throughout Europe since the Middle Ages. Belgian White and Wheat beer are two styles of beer that are typically paired with oranges.

It is believed that the tradition of adding orange slices to beer began with Belgian monks who brewed a wheat beer called Witbier. The monks would add orange peel and coriander to the beer during the brewing process to give it a unique flavor. Over time, the tradition of adding an orange slice to the glass when serving the beer became popular.

One of the most famous Belgian White beers is Blue Moon. The beer is brewed with Valencia orange peels, giving it a subtle sweetness and citrus notes. The beer is typically served cold with an orange slice, which enhances the flavor and aroma of the beer.

In recent years, the practice of adding an orange slice to beer has become more popular in the United States. Sandlot Brewery in Denver, Colorado, is credited with popularizing the practice in the US. The brewery began serving their Belgian White beer with an orange slice in the 1990s, and the trend caught on.

Adding an orange slice to beer has become so popular that it is now a recognized category in beer competitions. The World Beer Cup and World Beer Championship both have categories for beers that are served with citrus. While the practice may not be for everyone, it is clear that adding an orange slice to beer has a long and rich history in the world of beer.

Types of Beer with Orange Slice

When it comes to beer with an orange slice, there are a few types of beer that are typically paired with this citrus garnish.

These include Belgian White Ale, Wheat Ale, Pale Ale, Lagers, and IPAs. Each type of beer has its unique flavor and aroma, which is complemented by the addition of an orange slice.

Belgian White Ale

Belgian White Ale is a wheat beer that is brewed with coriander and orange peel, making it an ideal beer to pair with an orange slice. The addition of an orange slice enhances the citrusy notes of the beer, making it a refreshing and flavorful drink.

Wheat Ale

Wheat Ale, also known as White Wheat or White Ale, is another type of beer that is commonly paired with an orange slice. This beer is brewed with a high percentage of wheat, which gives it a smooth and creamy texture. The addition of an orange slice complements the fruity and spicy notes of the beer, making it a perfect summer drink.

Pale Ale

Pale Ale is a type of beer that is brewed with pale malt, which gives it a light color and a crisp taste. The addition of an orange slice to a Pale Ale enhances the citrusy notes of the beer, making it a refreshing and easy-to-drink beer.

Lagers

Lagers are a type of beer that is fermented at low temperatures, which gives it a clean and crisp taste. The addition of an orange slice to a Lager enhances the fruity notes of the beer, making it a perfect summer drink.

IPAs

IPAs, or India Pale Ales, are a type of beer that is brewed with a high amount of hops, which gives it a bitter and hoppy taste. The addition of an orange slice to an IPA enhances the citrusy notes of the beer, making it a refreshing and flavorful drink.

Popular Beer Brands with Orange Slice

When it comes to beer with an orange slice, there are several popular brands that come to mind.

Here are some of the most well-known:

Blue Moon Belgian White

Blue Moon Belgian White is a classic Belgian-style wheat ale brewed with orange peel. This beer has become known for its signature taste and aroma that is enhanced by the addition of an orange slice as a garnish. It has a smooth and refreshing taste with a hint of sweetness, making it a popular choice among beer enthusiasts.

Hoegaarden

Hoegaarden is another Belgian-style wheat beer that is often served with an orange slice. It has a slightly spicy flavor with a hint of citrus, which is complemented by the addition of an orange slice. This beer is light and refreshing, making it a great choice for warm weather.

Shock Top Belgian White

Shock Top Belgian White is a spiced Belgian-style wheat ale brewed with real orange, lemon, and lime peels. It has a crisp and refreshing taste with a hint of citrus, which is further enhanced by the addition of an orange slice. This beer is perfect for those who enjoy a light and flavorful beer.

Bud Light Orange

Bud Light Orange is a light lager brewed with real orange peels. It has a crisp and refreshing taste with a hint of citrus, which is complemented by the addition of an orange slice. This beer is perfect for those who enjoy a light and easy-to-drink beer.

New Belgium Citradelic

New Belgium Citradelic is an IPA brewed with citrusy hops and tangerine peel. It has a bold and flavorful taste with a hint of sweetness, which is further enhanced by the addition of an orange slice. This beer is perfect for those who enjoy a hoppy and citrusy beer.

Coors Slice

Coors Slice is a light lager brewed with natural flavors and fruit juice. It has a crisp and refreshing taste with a hint of citrus, which is complemented by the addition of an orange slice. This beer is perfect for those who enjoy a light and fruity beer.