freischwimmer

Beer is the best drink of all. That's why we sometimes wish its enjoyment were appropriate at any time of day and in any situation. We'd love to combine our scrambled eggs in the morning with a robust Helles, drink a crisp Pilsner with our Thai curry at lunch, and ring in the end of the day at the office with a light and fluffy Session IPA. We'd love to drink a comforting wheat beer before soccer practice, make a meeting with the boss more bearable with a lively Imperial Stout, and console ourselves with a thematically appropriate sour beer while we're at the tax advisor's. Because alcohol consumption before four is frowned upon, many clever brewers have decided to develop non-alcoholic alternatives. These can certainly be enjoyed before four and sweeten breakfast, lunch, coffee breaks, and dinner with hops and malt—and completely without alcohol!

A fine version comes from the pen of Felix vom Endt. The brains behind Orca Brau created Freischwimmer. With less than 0.5% alcohol, the brew is perfectly suitable for everyday drinking. The initial sip delights with a malty richness and velvety sweetness. Gradually, bitter, fresh hops join in. The dregs left in the beer and the yeast give Freischwimmer a wonderful spiciness that elegantly rounds off the character of this full-bodied yet feather-light beer.