Widmer Brothers Takes Summertime Seasonal National

Widmer Citra Blonde Summer BrewPORTLAND, OR – Widmer Brothers Brewing is taking its sunny seasonal national beginning this spring. Introduced in 2010 as Sunburn Summer Ale, the beer quickly captured a loyal following that earned it an encore performance this year, as it returns as Citra Blonde Summer Brew.

Bottles will contain the same crisp, refreshing ale inside while sporting a new name and design on the outside. In addition, the brewery has expanded Citra Blonde Summer Brew’s distribution, providing beer enthusiasts across the U.S. with an opportunity to enjoy Widmer Brother’ thirst quencher.

“At Widmer Brothers, we’re always looking for opportunities to give our brews an interesting twist, and the Citra hops did just that for Citra Blonde Summer Brew,” said Rob Widmer, co-founder of the brewery. “The hops give this refreshing summertime brew hints of grapefruit and orange flavors, making it the perfect outdoor, warm-weather beer.”

A relatively new variety, Citra hops helps create a balanced flavorful beer with little bitterness. Citra Blonde Ale offers a subtle, refreshing hop aroma complemented by a light caramel body. Limited to West Coast distribution last year, this year beer drinkers will be able to find Citra Blonde Summer Brew across the rest of the U.S. as we4ll. The beer features Widmer Brothers’ new packaging design which was unveiled last month and provides consumers with a quick lesson on flavor points, style and recommended glassware, as well as other beer and Widmer Brother facts.

“Citra Blonde Summer Brew is the resurrection of our original Sunburn Summer Ale recipe, only with a new name to highlight the hops that lend their unique character to this beer,” continued Rob Widmer. “This seasonal was a quick favorite last year, and we’re excited to be offering it to a larger audience this summer.”

Citra Blonde Summer Brew is one of four seasonal beers that Widmer Brothers will release over the course of the year. this tradition hearkens back to 1986, when brothers Kurt and Rob became the first brewers to release a series of beers to celebrate each of the seasons.

Flavor notes:

  • Soft malty notes
  • Pleasant, slightly sweet finish
  • Crisp hop character
  • Grapefruit and orange flavor and aroma
  • Malts: Pale and caramel malt
  • Hops: Alchemy and Citra

Ingredients and Profile:

  • Bitterness: 15 IBU
  • Alcohol by Volume: 4.3 percent
  • Original Gravity: 10.48 PLATO

Citra Blonde Summer Brew will be available April 25 through Aug. 14 on draught and in six-packs at select retailers across the country; the suggested retail price for a six-pack is $8.99.