6 Kölsches to kill the heat wave

By Katie Herrera // July 21, 2017


Whoa boy, St. Louis. You really got hot all of a sudden. I was very much enjoying the lack of the 100-plus-degree days and the abnormal heat index at 8 a.m. while walking my dog. Alas, humidity and sweltering heat have taken over. To counteract this obtrusive weather this weekend, go get yourself some approachable, light-bodied beers that taste great extra cold.

Kölsch, the German-style lagered ale originally from Köln, is one of my go-to styles for hot weather. These clean and crisp low-ABV beers are über flavorful with delicate fruity aromatics, low levels of Pilsner malt graininess and subtle hop bitterness. Their refreshing nature is enhanced with adequate carbonation that drives soft flavors of cereal, pear, citrus, grass and even grape at times. These balanced brews tend to finish with an energizing zip leaving you ready for your next.

Here are a few locally available Kölsch-style brews to pack in the cooler for these dog days of summer:

1. Schlafly Kölsch (4.8-percent ABV) Available on draft, in bottles and in cans in mass quantity around the St. Louis area, this is one of my first favorite local beers.

2. Mark Twain Brewing Co. Clemens Kölsch (4.4-percent ABV) A new canning line for Mark Twain means this summer crusher is now available in a get-out-on-the-river float trip ready package.

3. Missouri Beer Company Kölsch (4.5-percent ABV) If you find yourself near O’Fallon, Missouri this weekend, stop by this new(ish) brewery and grab a Crowler for the weekend – it’s delightful.

4. Boulevard Brewing Co. Kölsch (4.6-percent ABV) A winner from the other side of the state, it’s available on draft and in cans for pairing with your favorite summer pastime.

5. Left Hand Brewing Co. Travelin’ Light Kölsch (4.8-percent ABV) This Colorado stud of a brewery jumped on the session ale train and canned this new-to-the-market refresher. Another canned goody means more variety for your outdoor adventures.

6. Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. Bap (4.9-percent ABV) Of course the most German-inspired brewery in The Lou is going to knock this German-style bier out of the park. Grab a growler at The Grove brewery and Bierhall this weekend.

Katie Herrera is co-founder of Femme Ferment and a brand representative for Craft Republic.