Kulmbacher Radler

Look closely at the picture.  Looks like a beer doesn't it?  Well it is but it isn't.  It's a Radler.  OK so you are wondering what that is, well radler in German means cyclist and a Radler beer is a mixture of carbonated lemonade, sometimes with some limeade, and pilsner.  This mixture is about a 60/40 split.  It's a low alcohol alternative for when you want a beer but don't want too much alcohol , like when you are cycling.  It's also something that you can order in order to give the impression that you are keeping up with your hard drinking German friends, only you and the waitress will know just how big a wuss you are! 

This Radler is from the Kulmbacher brewery and I really like it.  It pours a very very pale yellow and has a decent head, the aroma is one of fresh cut lemons with a hint of lime and the flavor is all lemon/limeade.  If I was able to get out on a long ride this summer I'd definitely be looking for a gasthaus with a Kulmbacher sign out during the ride so I could stop, take a break and enjoy one of these Radlers.

If you want to try one of these are on your own I know there are some breweries in the states that make a Radler.  If you can't find one already mixed then look for carbonated lemonade and use a light beer, Bud Light or Miller Light would work, or find your favorite Pilsner and do a 60% lemonade and 40% beer mixture.  If you can't find carbonated lemonade then use 7-Up or Sprite.