Why You Need to Try Fruit Beers and Lagers This Summer

When the sun's out and you're reaching for a refreshing drink, it’s time to think beyond your standard lager or IPA. 

Enter the vibrant world of fruit beers and lagers, a flavourful twist on traditional brews that’s perfect for summer sipping, BBQs, picnics, or simply relaxing in the garden.

Here’s why you should give fruit beers and lagers a go – even if you’ve always thought you were strictly a pale ale or stout person.

1. They’re Surprisingly Refreshing

Fruit beers and lagers often have a lighter body and crisp finish, making them incredibly refreshing. The addition of fruit adds a subtle sweetness or tartness that can cut through the heat and keep your palate dancing. Think lemon, cherry, raspberry, passion fruit, or even mango, perfect flavours to cool down on a warm day.

2. Great for People Who "Don’t Like Beer"

Not everyone enjoys the bitterness of hops, and that’s okay! Fruit beers often have a more accessible flavour profile, appealing to those who usually lean towards ciders, cocktails, or even soft drinks. If you’re trying to get a friend into craft beer, fruit-infused brews are a gentle gateway.

3. They Pair Brilliantly with Food

Fruit lagers and beers are great for pairing with food, especially during summer. A cherry beer with dark chocolate, a citrus lager with grilled chicken, or a berry-flavoured ale with a fresh salad can elevate your meal into a proper culinary experience.

4. Breweries Are Getting Creative

From big names to small independents, brewers are experimenting more than ever with fruit additions. Expect everything from classic Belgian-style krieks (cherry beers) to adventurous watermelon wheat beers or strawberry milkshake IPAs. There’s something for every taste, whether you want sweet, sour, juicy, or tropical.

5. Ideal for Outdoor and Social Drinking

Light, sessionable fruit beers are ideal for garden parties, beer gardens, and festivals. Lower in alcohol than heavier brews, they’re made for sipping over long afternoons with friends.

6. They're Beautiful in the Glass

Let’s not pretend looks don’t matter. Many fruit beers come in stunning shades of pink, red, amber or even purple – a feast for the eyes before you’ve even taken a sip. Garnish with fruit or serve in a chilled glass, and you've got a drink that’s Instagram-ready.

Where to Start

If you're ready to dip your toes into the fruity beer world, here are a few classic and crowd-pleasing options:

Lindemans Kriek (Belgium) – A cherry lambic with a tart, slightly sweet edge.

Tiny Rebel’s Clwb Tropica (Wales) – A tropical fruit IPA bursting with flavour.

Camden Town Strawberry Hells (UK) – A limited-edition twist on their popular lager.

Fruli Strawberry Beer (Belgium) – Smooth, creamy and sweet like strawberry shortcake in a glass.

Wiper and True’s Kaleidoscope with fruit editions (Bristol) – Complex and juicy.

Final Thoughts

Fruit beers and lagers are far more than a gimmick. They’re a legitimate category of craft brewing that brings variety, creativity and excitement to your glass. Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just exploring your tastes, trying a fruit-infused beer could surprise you – in the best way possible.

This summer, raise a glass to flavour. Try something fruity. You just might find your new favourite.