Name: Bell’s Oberon Ale

Product of: Bell’s Brewery, Inc., Kalamazoo, Mich.

Serving Style: Pint glass

In keeping with tradition of trying to beckon summer into Iowa with summer beers, I’ve selected Bell’s Oberon Ale. Oberon is an American pale wheat ale that’s extremely drinkable and modestly priced for any six-pack boasting 5.8 percent ABV.

Smell: Mostly wheat and citrus meet the nostrils, with a pinch of alcohol and bread in there as well; basic but inviting.  3.8/5

Appearance: The color is what I’d call a cloudy orange with a thin, white head. What really makes this an appetizing summer beer is the way it seems to glow orange, perfectly reminiscent of bottled sunshine. 4.5/5

Taste: The best word to describe the taste would be fresh. The grainy flavors build a base as expected, but the citrusy punch that follows delivers just the right amount of tartness atop a banana-esque sweetness, followed by a bitter aftertaste, making it perfect for any sweltering summer afternoon. 4.2/5

Oberon Ale reminds me of a more polished execution of 312 Urban Wheat by Goose Island Beer Co., a beer quite popular in Iowa City. If you’ve ever had a 312 and enjoyed it but found it a little wanting or harsh, the Oberon Ale will likely hit you right between the eyes with its balanced and drinkable flavor.  12.5/15