Owl’s Brew has something brand new for you to try. Known for their tea-based cocktail mixers, they now sell beer mixed with freshly brewed tea, in their own take on a Radler-style beer.
The Radler (similar to the Shandy) originated in Germany in the 20s. Made specifically for cyclists, it originally consisted of a mix of lighter beer and a citrusy juice.
Owl’s Brew’s Radlers, however, feature a blend of roughly 60 percent beer and 40 percent tea, making them slightly more alcoholic, and slightly less radler, but no less enjoyable (so I had been told).
I had the distinct pleasure of trying three of Owl’s Brew year-round Radlers for myself. I admit I am not a huge fan of tea, and successful radler tastings have been few and far between, so I came into these a bit reticent, expecting the worst.
Boy, was I surprised!
That’s My Jam
Amber ale blended with brewed Darjeeling tea, hibiscus flower, fruit juices, and agave sugar.
With what tastes like apples and strawberries wrestling Darjeeling tea, there are notes of caramel and lemon throughout. The fruit has a slight tartness about it, like strawberries just a day before ripe.
Overall, this feels remarkably like a sweet tea with fresh lemon and sangria fruits. A filling medium body with a strong sugar backbone.
Although the sweetness could be overwhelming for some, this makes a perfect companion for my Strawberry/Doughnut vape juice, but I likely couldn’t have more than one or two at a time.
- ABV: 3.8%
- IBU: 10
- Style: Shandy/Radler
- Taste: Strawberry, Darjeeling tea
- Rating: 4.1/5
- Untappd reviews
Wicked Watermelon
Wheat beer blended with brewed white tea and watermelon concentrate.
Pours a dark golden and copper color, The smell seems a bit muted, grainy malts and watermelon with a floral white tea.
The aroma does not prepare you for the flavor. Heaps of watermelon with white tea, highly refreshing and a finish that lingers.
Another filling medium to full body offering from Owl’s Brew. Easy to drink and quaffable.
- ABV: 3.8%
- IBU: 10
- Style: Shandy/Radler
- Taste: Watermelon, White Tea
- Rating: 4.0/5
- Untappd reviews
The Blondie
The blondie is wheat beer brewed with spices and blended with black tea and citrus juices.
An extremely hazy golden color with clean off-white/beige head. You can instantly smell the lemon/lime citrus and black tea.
The flavor isn’t far from the nose, with the black tea, lemon, lime with wheat beer and honey. This one is a bit lighter than the others.
Easy to drink, like the other offerings from Owl’s Brew, and far from what I’ve ever considered to be a beer, but still quite enjoyable.
- ABV: 3.8%
- IBU: 10
- Style: Shandy/Radler
- Taste: Citrus, Black Tea
- Rating: 3.6/5
- Untappd reviews
Overall Impressions
Owl’s Brew Radlers are much more than just the sum of their parts – don’t expect a traditional radler, and don’t expect a twisted tea. This is neither of those things, but something definitely worth trying.
You can find Owl’s Brew Radlers across the northeast United States.
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