Oberon Ale -- Bell's (Kalamazoo, MI)

Like many regional breweries, Bell's is sometimes hit-or-miss.  The Oberon wheat ale has remained fairly consistent over the past 5-6 years, however -- always thicker than it looks, working a subtle line between hop-overload and red/amber roasty notes.

Characteristics: Cloudy, rich gold color, average head and carbonation, medium-to-heavy body, moderate bitterness carries through from start to finish with a slight citrus finish and a grainy feel on the tongue.

Minor Gripes: This ale is VERY temperature-dependent -- too cold and it's just a heavy yellow lager, too warm and it's literally liquid bread.  The sweet spot is very hard to find, especially in a bar.

Bottom Line: Bell's Oberon is a good beer if you like weiss beers and are willing to experiment a little on the heavier side.  At the same time, with summer rapidly approaching in Washington, Oberon season is nearly over (head out to Michigan or Wisconsin to enjoy it for a few more months).

Rating: 5.75 / 10