Cali Squeeze is called by its maker a "fruit-forward beer of today, reflecting the laid-back, uncomplicated expectations of a new generation of beer drinkers." They continue that it's "a California beer infused with freshly squeezed California fruits, all powered by California sunshine." In case you missed the point, their website shows plenty of pics of people surfing, skateboarding and generally enjoying the sunny day while sipping on these low-alcohol ales.
Cali Squeeze ales are made by the Firestone Walker Brewing Company, whose beers I have enjoyed for years. The Paso Robles brewery enters the fray for juicy, light drink dollars which are flowing toward hard seltzers currently. I was given a trio of the fruity beverages to sample. Alcohol on each sits at 5.4% abv, a tad more than the typical hard seltzer and about the same as a session beer.
Blood Orange Hefeweizen is brewed with blood orange and natural flavor. It is probably my favorite of the three. The blood orange is not exactly subdued, but it does stand aside more than the fruit in the other two, allowing this one to taste more like a beer.
Mango Hefeweizen tastes and smells like a beer with a mango in it. It is certainly refreshing, and brings a load of citrus aromas into play as well. I didn't think it would be for me - I'm not a "fruit in my beer" kind of guy - but this one has me rethinking that stance. This ale is brewed with mango and natural flavor, and it is definitely fruit forward.
Tropical P.O.G. Hefeweizen is brewed with passionfruit, orange, guava and natural flavor. The orange and guava come through the strongest for me on the nose and palate. Again, enjoyable and refreshing.
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