Shiner – Brewer’s Pride Prickly Pear

Back in April I brought you an exciting new label from Shiner caller brewer’s Pride Prickly Pear…and I’m excited to report that thanks to my friend Jimmy Mauric, I was able to sample this new brew.    Shiner Prickly Pear is the 3rd release in the Brewer’s Pride Series, and yes I did get to sample the first two (Old Time Alt & Ryes & Shine.)  Prickly Pear has “summer brew” written all over it.  From the first aromatic “whiff” when you open he bottle, to your first sip, this is a great summer beer.  The nose is decidedly floral and fruity, and the taste does not disappoint.  Prickly Pear is well balanced, but it does lean slightly to the fruity/citrusy/sweet side, but in a really enjoyable way.  We sampled a few at different temps, and on a hot afternoon like today, I liked it best pretty cold.

The sweet citrus flavor of the prickly pear fruit is complemented by the Citra & US Goldings hops…and yes for those asking, this IS a lager and it does use Prickly Pear cactus juice..  On second and third sip I’m happy to report a clean and crisp tartness and a really drinkable mouthfeel.   I’m a big fan of Shiner’s Ruby Redbird and the family resemblance is in Prickly Pear for sure.  While I will admit I like Ruby Redbird a little better, Prickly Pear is up to the task, especially on a hot summer night like tonight….Cheers Jimmy…you have another winner in Prickly Pear!

Prickly Pear is part of the Family Reunion Variety Pack which will also include Kosmos Reserve, Black Lager, Bock, Blonde & Hefe….so check it out for yourself.