If you’re into beer adventures that mix tradition with a bit of fun, then Berliner Weisse should be on your radar. This refreshing, sour wheat beer hails from the buzzing city of Berlin and is famous for its sharp, tangy flavour, often balanced out with a splash of flavoured syrup. It’s the kind of beer that’s perfect for warm days when you’re keen to cool down with something a little different. Let’s dive into the backstory of this unique brew and find out why it’s one of Berlin’s best-kept secrets.
Berliner Weisse has been a part of Berlin’s beer culture since the 16th century, and like many good things, it was born out of a bit of experimentation. The beer’s roots are thought to trace back to Northern German wheat beers and some influence from Belgium’s sour ales. Back then, before fancy brewing tech, beer would often have a natural tartness from wild fermentation. By the 19th century, Berliner Weisse had become Berlin’s signature beer, with hundreds of local breweries producing it.
The magic of Berliner Weisse comes from a mix of wheat and barley malts, fermented with both yeast and lactic acid bacteria, which is what gives it that distinctive sour kick. Back in the day, it was known to be much stronger and sourer than what we get today, but its light, thirst-quenching nature quickly made it a favourite for locals.
Now, here’s where things get interesting. Unlike most beers, Berliner Weisse is traditionally served with a bit of a twist—literally. Because of its sharp sourness, Berliners started adding syrup to it, transforming the drink into something a bit more playful. The two most popular flavours are Waldmeister (woodruff), which turns your beer a bright green with a sweet, herbal note, and Himbeer (raspberry), which adds a fruity, red colour and flavour to balance out the tartness.
This tradition of mixing the beer with syrup dates back to the late 19th century and has stuck around ever since. The idea is simple: the beer stays light and refreshing, but you get to adjust the flavour to your taste. Plus, it makes for some Instagram-worthy drinks with those bold, colourful hues.
When’s the best time to enjoy a Berliner Weisse? Well, any time, really, but it shines brightest during the summer. Picture yourself chilling in a Berlin beer garden, the sun is out, and you’re sipping on a cold Berliner Weisse mit Schuss (with syrup). It’s the kind of laid-back drinking experience that’s perfect for lazy afternoons. It’s also a great option if you’re not in the mood for something heavy, as its low alcohol content (usually around 3%) means you can enjoy a few without feeling like you’ve overdone it.
Berliner Weisse has made its way onto the menus of trendy bars and even craft beer festivals around the world, but there’s nothing quite like enjoying it in its home city of Berlin.
A few breweries have made sure that this historic beer style stays alive and well:
• Berliner Kindl Weisse: If you’re looking for the most iconic Berliner Weisse brand, this is it. Berliner Kindl Weisse has been brewing this style for over a century, and they’ve mastered that smooth balance of sour and light. It’s usually served with the traditional syrups, giving you the full Berliner experience.
• BRLO Berliner Weisse: This modern craft brewery based in Berlin is putting a fresh spin on the style. BRLO’s version of Berliner Weisse sticks close to tradition but with a slightly more artisanal approach, perfect for beer lovers who enjoy something a little bit different.
• Schneider Weisse Berliner Kindl: Known for their expertise in wheat beers, Schneider Weisse produces a top-notch Berliner Weisse that’s both accessible and true to its roots. They’ve taken the classic recipe and added a premium touch, making it a must-try for any beer enthusiast.
• Freigeist Bierkultur: If you’re up for something experimental, Freigeist Bierkultur is the brand for you. They’re known for pushing the boundaries of traditional styles, and their versions of Berliner Weisse often have bold, creative twists, appealing to craft beer aficionados.
Berliner Weisse is one of those beers that’s got a bit of everything—history, flavour, and a fun twist with the syrups. Whether you’re sitting in a Berlin beer garden or trying it for the first time at a craft beer festival, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression. With its low alcohol content, refreshing sourness, and customisable flavours, this is a beer that’s all about enjoying the moment. If you’re exploring South Africa’s beer scene or heading abroad, make sure you give Berliner Weisse a go—it’s a taste of Berlin that’ll have you coming back for more.