United Nations of Beer

Shiner Blonde

by Darius Riney
(Arlington, Texas)

Shiner Blonde
Spoetzl Brewery, TX, USA
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Today, I review Shiner Blonde, which according to the website is in the style of the original beers brewed in the Spoetzl Brewery. It is one of many beers on the market called a blonde that is actually something else, in this case a Pilsner.

As a Pils it does pretty well, a nice crisp flavor and a slightly acidic bite combined with a moderate hops note, and a gentle yet distinct aroma. To the average beer drinker who has never had a European Pils, it is likely even on the side of quite good. Continues below

Frankly on a hot summer day after mowing the lawn, it is pretty great. However, the reality is that Shiner Blonde is pretty average in its class. Certainly better than the dreck many American companies pass off as a Pils, but not keeping up with its truly Bohemian brothers.

I'll keep drinking it mind you, if nothing else it trumps many others on availability alone in these parts.

Clearly this beer a nice thing to have on a hot summer's day, yet when put next to a Czech or German Pils, Shiner Blonde is simply an enjoyable average beer.