Blue Moon is a Belgian-style wheat ale that has gained popularity among beer enthusiasts in recent years. The beer is brewed by the Blue Moon Brewing Company, which was founded in 1995 by Keith Villa in Denver, Colorado. Blue Moon is known for its unique flavor profile, which is a result of the ingredients used in the brewing process.
One question that many people have about Blue Moon is what it tastes like. The beer has a distinct flavor that is difficult to describe, but many people describe it as being light and refreshing with a slightly sweet finish. Some people compare the taste of Blue Moon to that of a Belgian white beer, which is a style of beer that is brewed with wheat, coriander, and orange peel.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Blue Moon is a Belgian-style wheat ale that is known for its unique flavor profile.
- Many people describe the taste of Blue Moon as being light and refreshing with a slightly sweet finish.
- Blue Moon is often compared to Belgian white beers, which are brewed with wheat, coriander, and orange peel.
Taste Profile
Flavor Characteristics
Blue Moon is a Belgian-style witbier that is brewed with Valencia orange peel and other spices. It has a light, refreshing taste that is perfect for warm weather. The beer has a juicy, creamy taste with a smooth finish that is not too bitter. The citrus flavors in the beer are prominent, with notes of Valencia orange peel and other spices.
The beer has a medium body and a moderate level of carbonation. It has a slightly sweet taste, but it is not overwhelming. The beer is easy to drink and has a crisp, refreshing finish.
Comparative Analysis
Compared to other witbiers, Blue Moon has a unique flavor profile. It is less bitter than some other witbiers, which makes it more approachable for people who are not fans of bitter beers. The beer is also less spicy than some other witbiers, which allows the citrus flavors to shine through.
Overall, Blue Moon has a well-balanced flavor profile that is not too sweet or too bitter. It has a smooth, refreshing taste that is perfect for warm weather. The beer is easy to drink and has a unique flavor that sets it apart from other witbiers.
Ingredient Breakdown
Main Components
Blue Moon is a Belgian-style witbier that is brewed using a combination of wheat malt, malted barley, and oats. The brewing process involves a mash and sparge, which produces a sweet liquid called wort that is then boiled with hops to add bitterness and flavor. The wort is then fermented with a special yeast strain that imparts a unique character to the beer.
One of the key components of Blue Moon is coriander, a spice that is commonly used in Belgian-style beers. Coriander adds a spicy, citrusy flavor to the beer, which is complemented by the addition of Valencia orange peel. The orange peel provides a sweet, fruity aroma and flavor that is characteristic of Blue Moon.
Additional Elements
In addition to the main components, Blue Moon also contains a few additional elements that contribute to its flavor and aroma. These include:
- Citrus notes: Blue Moon has a citrusy flavor that is derived from the use of Valencia orange peel and a touch of lemon.
- Garnish: Blue Moon is often served with an orange slice as a garnish, which adds a fresh citrus flavor to the beer.
- ABV: Blue Moon has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5.4%, which is relatively low compared to other craft beers.
- Temperature: Blue Moon is best served cold, at a temperature of around 38-40°F.
- Quality: Blue Moon is made with high-quality ingredients and is brewed using a traditional Belgian-style brewing process.
Overall, Blue Moon is a classic wheat beer that is known for its refreshing citrus flavors and aromas. Whether you’re enjoying a cold one on a hot summer day or pairing it with your favorite meal, Blue Moon is sure to satisfy.
Beer Presentation
Visual Appeal
Blue Moon is a wheat ale that has a hazy appearance with a golden hue. The beer has a creamy body and is known for its smooth mouthfeel. When poured into a glass, it forms a thick white head that dissipates slowly. The beer’s color and texture are visually appealing and make it a popular choice among beer enthusiasts.
Serving Suggestions
Blue Moon is typically served in a pint glass or a weizen glass. The beer is often garnished with an orange slice or peel, which adds a citrusy aroma and flavor to the beer. The orange garnish also adds a pop of color to the drink, making it visually appealing. The beer is best served cold, and it pairs well with a variety of foods, including spicy dishes, salads, and seafood.
When serving Blue Moon, it’s essential to pour the beer correctly. The beer should be poured at a 45-degree angle into the glass, allowing it to form a thick head. The glass should be tilted back to an upright position as the beer is poured, allowing the head to form properly. When serving Blue Moon on draft, it’s important to ensure that the beer is served at the correct temperature and pressure to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
Overall, Blue Moon is a delicious beer with a unique flavor profile and a visually appealing appearance. It’s a popular choice among beer enthusiasts and is enjoyed by many.
Variations and Similar Beers
Blue Moon Varieties
Blue Moon Brewing Company offers a variety of beers, each with a unique taste and flavor profile. Some of the popular Blue Moon varieties include:
- Belgian White: The flagship beer of Blue Moon, Belgian White is a wheat beer brewed with coriander and orange peel. It has a light, refreshing taste with a hint of citrus.
- Iced Coffee Blonde: This beer is a blend of blonde ale and cold-brew coffee, giving it a smooth and creamy taste with a subtle coffee flavor.
- Mango Wheat: As the name suggests, this beer is brewed with mango puree, giving it a fruity and tropical taste. It has a light body and is perfect for summer days.
- Summer Honey Wheat: This beer is brewed with honey and spices, giving it a sweet and spicy flavor. It has a light and crisp taste, making it perfect for warm weather.
- Raspberry Cream Ale: This beer is brewed with raspberry puree and vanilla, giving it a sweet and creamy taste with a hint of tartness from the raspberries.
Comparable Beers
If you enjoy Blue Moon, you may also like these similar beers:
- European Beers: If you enjoy the Belgian White variety of Blue Moon, you may enjoy other Belgian-style wheat beers such as Hoegaarden or Allagash White.
- Light Beer: If you prefer lighter beers, you may enjoy Miller Lite or Coors Light, which have a similar light and refreshing taste to Blue Moon.
- Labatt Blue: This Canadian beer has a similar taste profile to Blue Moon, with a light and crisp taste and a hint of citrus.
- Guinness: While it may seem like a stretch, some beer enthusiasts have compared the smooth and creamy taste of Blue Moon’s Iced Coffee Blonde to that of Guinness, a popular Irish stout.
Overall, Blue Moon offers a variety of beers with unique flavor profiles, and there are many similar beers available for those who enjoy its taste.
Nutritional Information
Blue Moon is a Belgian-style wheat ale that is brewed with Valencia orange peel, coriander, and oats. It has a smooth and crisp taste with a hint of citrus. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for a 12-ounce serving of Blue Moon:
- Calories: 171
- Carbohydrates: 13.8 grams
- Protein: 1.5 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- ABV: 5.4%
- Type: Lager
Blue Moon is a relatively low-calorie beer compared to some of its counterparts. It has a moderate alcohol content, making it a good option for those who want to enjoy a beer without getting too intoxicated. The beer is also low in fat and contains a small amount of protein.
One thing to keep in mind is that Blue Moon is brewed with wheat, which can be a problem for those who have celiac disease or a gluten intolerance. While Blue Moon is not gluten-free, it is possible to find gluten-free beers that are similar in taste and style.
Overall, Blue Moon is a good option for those who want a refreshing and light beer with a hint of citrus. While it is not the healthiest beer on the market, it is a good option for those who want to enjoy a beer without consuming too many calories or too much alcohol.
Awards and Recognition
Blue Moon has gained recognition and accolades for its unique taste and quality. The beer has won several awards at prestigious beer competitions, including the World Beer Championship and the World Beer Cup.
At the 2019 World Beer Championship, Blue Moon Belgian White won a gold medal in the Belgian Witbier category with a score of 94 points out of 100. The judges praised the beer’s aroma, flavor, and overall balance.
Similarly, at the 2018 World Beer Cup, Blue Moon’s Belgian White won a silver medal in the Belgian-Style Witbier category. The judges noted the beer’s refreshing taste and aroma, as well as its smooth finish.
These awards demonstrate the high quality and consistency of Blue Moon’s Belgian White beer. The brewery’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional brewing methods has paid off in the form of critical acclaim and widespread popularity.
Overall, Blue Moon’s unique taste has earned it a loyal following and recognition from industry experts. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a meal, Blue Moon Belgian White is a refreshing and flavorful beer that stands out in a crowded market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common flavors in Blue Moon beer?
Blue Moon beer is brewed with Valencia orange peel, coriander, and oats, which give it a slightly sweet and citrusy flavor. It also has a hint of wheat and a subtle spiciness.
What is the general consensus on the taste of Blue Moon beer?
The taste of Blue Moon beer is generally well-received by beer drinkers. It has a smooth and refreshing taste with a hint of sweetness and a slight bitterness.
Is Blue Moon beer considered a good tasting beer?
Blue Moon beer is considered a good tasting beer by many beer enthusiasts. It has won several awards for its taste and quality.
What are some tips for enhancing the taste of Blue Moon beer?
To enhance the taste of Blue Moon beer, it is recommended to serve it cold in a chilled glass. Adding a slice of orange to the beer can also enhance its citrusy flavor.
Does Blue Moon beer have a fruity taste?
Blue Moon beer has a slightly fruity taste due to the Valencia orange peel used in its brewing process. However, it is not overpowering and adds a subtle sweetness to the beer.
Is pasteurization responsible for any changes in Blue Moon beer’s taste?
Pasteurization can affect the taste of Blue Moon beer, but it is necessary to ensure its quality and safety. The beer is flash-pasteurized to preserve its flavor and freshness.