Berliner Weisse

Berliner Weisse is a wheat beer that is characterized by low alcohol content, sour flavor, and a light body. Most representatives of the style are soured with the use of lactic acid bacteria, which gives the beer its specific funky, tart, and fizzy character.

The origin of Berliner Weisse is unclear. Although there are several theories explaining its origin, the most probable claims that the style evolved from the now-extinct Breyhan or Broyhan beer from Hannover. Weisse was especially popular in the 19th century, and it is even said that when Napoleon encountered this beer style in Germany, he named it the Champagne of the north.

By the late 1990s, the style almost disappeared, but lately it has been slowly revived, mostly by craft breweries. In Germany, these wheat beers are often served with raspberry (himbeer) or woodruff (waldmeister) sugar syrups. To mellow it down, sometimes the beer is also mixed with pilsner.

Following this tradition, many modern brews may incorporate various fruit. Because of its crisp and refreshing flavor, Berlin Weisse beer is a food-friendly beer that goes well with a variety of dishes. Unsweetened versions would match fruit desserts, goat cheese, and salty snacks.