Lawnmower beer

Everyone has a lawnmower beer (or at least I assume everyone has a lawnmower beer), and I’m no exception. On these hot summer days, my lawn mower beer is Spaten. It’s a mild tasting Munich lager (a Helles, for those who care), a pils without the hops, and in a heavy glass mug it’s just the right thing to enjoy while sweating.

To a point, that is. It’s also a little higher in alcohol than the average lager, which means it earns the less desirable “malt liquor” label. It also requires the exercise of a little more restraint, particularly if you’ll be driving.

Now, for those who have spent a little time in Munich, or are planning to, let me add this caveat: Spaten is a lovely choice here in the US. In Munich I’d opt for an Augustiner Edelstoff given the choice, and believe me I’d seek out a place where I did.