Shiner Hefeweizen

In writing a lifetime beer book, or recording observations and opinions about beer in some other form, one ought to remain tentative and be open to the possibility of future adjustments and reevaluations. For example, I first tried Shiner Hefeweizen on November 4, 2011 and did not give it a glowing review. I didn’t say it was “bad”. (My philosophy is very similar to that of the character Norm on Cheers who said, “Well, I never met a beer I didn’t drink.”). What I did write in my Lifetime Beer Book was, “Now I know that I never need to try this one again.”

Today I have come across a Shiner “Family reunion” sample pack containing a Hefeweizen. This time, I've gotta say, it’s pretty good.  I recommend it as an easy going adventure for someone who wants to explore beyond the usual mass produced pilsners.

What’s the big difference between this one and the one I had in the fall of ’11? Maybe it’s the beer. Small batch beers like this can have some variety from time to time, or there may have been an infection in the first one.  More likely, it’s an issue of the drinker. The mood I was in, the food I had recently eaten, the company I was keeping, all worked together to influence my perceptions.

Good thing I gave this one a second try. The lesson learned is that I must be gracious with second chances. That means the amount of work ahead of me on this beer book is daunting. It will take a lifetime to complete.