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What happens when two craft beer enthusiasts venture beyond their comfort zone and dive into the world of summer shandies? Pure, unexpected delight.

The Northwoods Beer Guy and Jim embark on a refreshing tasting adventure, sampling eight different fruit-forward beers from Leinenkugel's and Saugatuck Brewing Company. Breaking from their usual preferences, they discover remarkable differences between these easy-drinking summer options.

Shandies – traditionally beer mixed with a lemon-flavored beverage – make perfect companions for hot summer days. But not all shandies are created equal. The duo methodically works through Leinenkugel's offerings, including their famous Summer Shandy (which surprisingly falls flat with notes reminiscent of "Lemon Pledge") and their more successful Juicy Peach option. The real revelation comes when they crack open Saugatuck's variety pack, where every offering impresses with natural fruit flavors and perfect balance.

The clear champion emerges in Saugatuck's Black Cherry Lemonade Shandy, earning a 3.0 score with its beautiful reddish hue, authentic cherry flavor, and clean finish. "That might be the best one," they agree, surprised by how much they enjoy this departure from their usual preferences.

Whether you're a dedicated craft beer enthusiast looking for something different or simply seeking the perfect "lawnmower beer" for summer refreshment, this episode offers candid insights into which shandies deliver and which fall short. The unexpected winner proves that sometimes venturing outside your beer comfort zone leads to delightful discoveries.

Find us on social media or email us at northwoodsbeerguy@gmail.com with your beer suggestions. And remember – may your campfires always be warm and your beers always cold!

Thank you for listening to The Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast. If you have a question, comment or would like us to review your beer, please feel free to contact us at northbeerguy@gmail.com.

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