Which Flavored Beer to Choose for a Unique Aperitif?

Tired of the classic pilsner on tap?? If the bitterness of hops isn't your cup of tea, or if you're simply looking to spice up your next happy hour, you've come to the right place. The world of flavored beer is a fascinating playground, with a palette of tastes that breaks the mold. Fruity notes, spicy touches, gourmet accents... there's something for everyone, guaranteed to surprise your taste buds and those of your guests.

To help you navigate this vast selection, our editors have picked out a few gems and are sharing their tips for making the right choice. All without the technical jargon or unnecessary fluff.

How to Choose Your Flavored Beer

Finding your way through the specialty beers aisle can quickly become a challenge. To help you unearth that hidden gem, here are a few simple criteria to keep in mind.

1. Identify the Aromatic Base

The term "?flavored?" actually conceals a wide diversity of styles. To narrow down your search, ask yourself which flavor profile tempts you the most?:

• Fruity?: Citrus (lemon, orange, yuzu), red berries, tropical fruits. These beers are often light and very refreshing. A yuzu beer, for example, will bring a welcome touch of acidity and exoticism.
• Sweet and Gourmet?: Honey, caramel, vanilla. Often amber or dark, these beers offer more body and complexity. Honey beer is a classic of the genre, combining sweetness and character.
• Spicy or Herbal?: Ginger, coriander, tea, or even spirit-inspired aromas. This is the playground for original beers, perfect for adventurous palates. The tequila-flavored beer is the most famous example.

2. Consider the Drinking Occasion

The context of the tasting is essential. For a unique aperitif in the middle of summer, a light and thirst-quenching beer is the way to go. For a more relaxed evening tasting, a complex and flavorful craft beer will be more suitable. Also, think about food pairings?: a citrus-infused beer will work wonders with seafood, while a honey beer will pair perfectly with a cheese board.

3. Keep an Eye on the Alcohol Content

The alcohol content, or Alcohol by Volume (ABV), is a key indicator. Flavored beers generally range from 4?% to over 8?%. A low alcohol content is often synonymous with lightness, ideal for quenching your thirst. Conversely, a higher percentage indicates a beer with more body and character, meant to be savored slowly.

Our Flavored Beer Recommendations

To get you started, here are three recommendations with very different profiles, for three distinct cravings.

iki yuzu 330ml

Why it stands out?: This beer stands out for its bold and refined combination. It blends a blonde ale base with sencha green tea and yuzu, the Japanese citrus with such a distinctive aroma. The result?? A surprisingly fresh drink where the vegetal notes of the tea perfectly balance the bright acidity of the yuzu.

Key features?:

• A unique and sophisticated aromatic profile.
• Very refreshing, with almost no bitterness.
• A moderate alcohol content of 4.5%.

Who is it for?? For those seeking an elegant alternative to traditional beer, or who are curious to discover Asian-inspired flavors. It's the perfect choice for a summer aperitif or to accompany light dishes like sushi or salads.

Desperados Original Beer, Tequila Flavor, 5.9% ABV, 6x33cl

Why it stands out?: A pioneer of the genre, Desperados has become an undeniable classic. Its strong identity is built on its tequila-like flavors, which give it that festive and instantly recognizable character. Its recipe combines the freshness of a blonde lager with sweet notes and a hint of citrusy acidity.

Key features?:

• An instantly recognizable and very approachable taste.
• Its sparkling and sweet side appeals to a wide audience.
• Perfect for festive get-togethers and nights out with friends.

Who is it for?? For fans of sweet, sparkling drinks looking for an easy-to-drink beer with a party vibe. It appeals to a younger crowd and anyone put off by the classic bitterness of a lager.

LORO Maya Amber Craft Beer with Honey 75cl

Why it stands out?: This craft beer from Burgundy is a beautiful example of local craftsmanship. It's an amber ale brewed with honey, which gives it a natural sweetness and a lovely roundness on the palate. The balance between the beer's malty character and the delicate notes of honey is particularly well-executed, without ever being overly sweet.

Key features?:

• An artisanal French product (from Burgundy).
• A perfect balance between the malt character and the sweetness of honey.
• Its 75cl format is ideal for sharing during a tasting.

Who is it for?? For enthusiasts curious to discover craft beer who appreciate beers with body and complexity. It will appeal to those looking for a natural sweetness and an alternative to heavily hopped beers.

Looking for Other Flavors?

Our selection is just a taste of the infinite possibilities offered by flavored beer. The brewing world is constantly buzzing with innovation, and brewers are doubling down on creativity to offer ever more surprising experiences.

To discover even more craft beers, limited editions, and unique flavors, explore our full selection.

Discover All Our Beers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a flavored beer and a Radler?

Although the result is often a refreshing drink, the production method is not the same. A flavored beer incorporates aromas (natural or otherwise), spices, or fruit juices during the brewing or fermentation process. In contrast, a Radler (or a Shandy in the UK) is a simple mix of beer (usually a pilsner) and a non-alcoholic soft drink (lemonade, fruit juice), which is done after brewing.

How should you serve a flavored beer?

Most flavored beers, especially those with fruity notes, are best enjoyed well-chilled, between 4 and 7?°C, to fully appreciate their freshness. For more complex beers like an amber honey beer, a slightly higher temperature (8-10?°C) will better reveal the richness of its aromas. In any case, use a proper glass to concentrate the scents.

Can you cook with flavored beer?

Absolutely?! A flavored beer can even become a secret ingredient to elevate your dishes. A citrus-flavored beer can be used to deglaze a pan of scallops or to marinate chicken. An amber honey beer will add depth and a sweet touch to a slow-cooked dish like a Flemish beef stew or in a gingerbread recipe.