Summer Beer -- Harpoon Brewery (Boston, MA / Windsor, VT)

I've made my way to a new city, but the same cruddy summer weather followed me here a couple weeks back.  And that means it's time for crisp beers that are best consumed cold and quickly.  Harpoon's not-so-imaginatively-named "Summer Beer" is its adaptation of the kolsch style most often associated with Cologne/Koln, Germany.

Characteristics: Light golden yellow color, slightly above-average carbonation, thin body, and a flavor that starts with sharp, dry hops (accentuated by the carbonation) and trails off to a slightly malty sweetness.  Easily among the lightest ales I've ever sampled.

Minor Gripes: The variability in the flavor can be somewhat frustrating, especially when the hops and malt get out of synch.  And like any kolsch, this beer is too thin for any part of the year other than muggy summer afternoons and evenings. And now that the weather has broken in NYC (evenings in the low 60s!), this beer is suddenly out of season (at least for another week).

Bottom Line: When it gets muggy and nasty and you can't walk three steps without breaking a sweat, Harpoon Summer Beer is an excellent option.

Rating: 6 / 10