by John Mizer
July 15, 2005

Greetings fellow grog dogs. This month I thought I'd spotlight a few hybrid beers that are unique, interesting and most importantly, delicious. You probably won't find these in the local gas station cooler so some homework and legwork may be involved. These three brews are definitely worth your time and trouble!

Ephemere Cassis - Unibroue Brewing - Chambly, Quebec
The Cassis is a fruit beer that is sweet without being too sweet. A perfect summer or dessert beer the Cassis would also be enjoyed by champagne/wine fans. It's nicely carbonated with an aroma of apple, berries and currant with a fruit candy flavor. Available on tap and in 22 oz. bottles.

Gumballhead Wheat Beer - Three Floyds Brewing - Munster, Indiana
How many people do you know who don't care for bitter beers or at the other end of the spectrum - wheat beers? Start scratching your head with this creation as the the Gumballhead is a generously hopped wheat beer. Bitter enough to satisfy the hopheads yet mellow and quaffable for the wheat beer sect. The best of both worlds. Available on tap and in 22 oz. bottles.

Red's Rye Ale - Founders Brewing - Grand Rapids, Michigan
A definitively balanced beer, the Red's Rye Ale is crimson in color, has a nice malt flavor combined with a burst of citrusy hops and a nice rye finish. A brew for all seasons and reasons. Availabe on tap and in bottles.