by Ryan LaMere

Summer is upon us. And with it, our eternal struggle to enjoy the outside while beating the heat. We will gather in forested retreats to camp, flock to aquatic pastimes, or just enjoy a few drinks in the shade at home. The time to be outside is here, so be sure to bring some refreshing beverages with you.

We have three perennial winners (all canned so you can take the party anywhere) that are perfect when the sun turns up the oven. 

Dogfish Head Brewing's Seaquench has a name that almost makes you thirsty just saying it. It’s a refreshing, light gose that can be described as a margarita without all the sugar. One drink has you wanting to hit the beach and is a crowd pleaser for beer, wine and margarita drinkers.

A mashup of a crisp Kolsch, salty gose, and tart Berliner Weisse brewed with black limes, sour lime juice and sea salt. This makes a beer that gives a sweet, tart and crisp taste sure to make your mouth water!

Golden Road has a favorite with their beer called Mango Cart. Inspired by the fruit vendors of California, it is a session wheat ale that you can drink all day in the sun. There is a slight hint of wheat and breadiness for backbone that supports a burst of mango flavor. Made with real mangos the drink is smooth and not overly sweet or overpowering. Worthy of an ice-cold spot in your portable cooler.

Up in Michigan, Bell's brews Oberon Wheat Ale for the summer. With a bright sun emblazoned on the packaging you know this beer is meant for warm weather. Oberon ale is called “sunshine in a glass” and geared to get you into a summer state of mind. Brewed with just wheat malt, hops, water and their signature house ale yeast, Oberon has a bright orange color and is citrusy, smooth and refreshing.

Summer will be a little cooler, and much tastier, when you bring these brews with you on your adventures. They all pair well with most summer fare, can go anywhere and be enjoyed all day.

There's plenty of other worthy brews at Colonial worth your precious cooler space.

These three, though, are a great place to start. Stay safe, hydrated and have a wonderful summer.