The DC crew of PorchDrinking.com actually doesn’t get together terribly often; you all know that we’re important young professionals who wine and dine on K Street each evening. When we do get together, notably to welcome a new writer (hi, Emily Gallt!), we sip and taste beers, both old and new favorites.

Featured image is the Southwest Waterfront in DC on a muggy, sticky summer night. All other images courtesy of corresponding breweries. 

We recently met at Penn Commons, a great restaurant and bar in Chinatown that boasts a solid beer list. It was a sweltering day, so we were aching for anything to cool us down. Here’s our picks.

3 Stars Brewing Company: Peppercorn Saison

6.5% ABV

This is a Belgian-style farmhouse ale with a bite; it’s perfect for a hot day when you want something with a fuller flavor. It’s citrusy, but not too bold. The coriander in the brew rounds out the lighter flavors.

 

Bell’s Brewery: Oberon Ale

5.8% ABV

When you get off work on a hot day, sometimes you don’t want to think. Bell’s Oberon is a classic — you know it’s going to be good. The wheat beer is smooth, with a bit of spicy hop (not terribly removed from the Peppercorn Saison above). Oberon, you’re a good thing. Don’t change.

 

 

Boulevard Brewing Company: Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale

8.5% ABV

This is farmhouse ale, but it definitely should be enjoyed slowly, as it packs a 8.5 percent ABV. It’s slightly citrusy, has a sweet flavor. It’s a great choice from the Midwestern brewery.

 

Kona Brewing Company: Big Wave

4.4% ABV

Kona definitely has hit cross-country popularity. Big Wave is a light, golden ale and incredibly easy drinking. It’s bright, still hoppy and enjoyable throughout the day.

 

 

Dogfish Head Craft Brewing: Namaste

4.8% ABV

OK, this name definitely drew in the yogi in the group and the witbier proved to be more enjoyable than a Bikram class. It was made with lemongrass, dried orange and coriander. Dogfish says its wine counterpart is Alsace-Gewürztraminer, which is also a favorite of the yogi. Truly, some good karma.

 

Hardywood Park Craft Brewing: Peach Triple

8.2% ABV

PorchDrinking was nervous to order this beer: Would it be a punch of peach? Absolutely not. It’s made with other stone fruits, apricots and nectarines, and some white pepper. It’s softly fruity and earthy.

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