Currently, it's fall, but I'm not still not over summer, because it's been a hot and humid one here in New York. I've gotten away from the heavy stuff recently, opting for the light-and-refreshing category. And hefeweissens definitely fall into this category. That's German for "wheat beer," folks, a cloudy, spicy type of lager, with a color range from pale yellow to light brown. It should be served cold and ALWAYS with a wedge of lemon. If you're ever served one without some citrus (which helps activate the flavor), throw the glass on the floor and storm out. Or just ask for one and enjoy the beer, depending on your mood. I recommend getting a hefeweissen (pronounced he-fe-VIE-zen) at brunch with Eggs Benedict - it's solid proof God loves us. As far as which one, here's my opinion on a few:

Pinkus Organic:

In the bottle, look for an elaborate, circa-1880's yellow and red design; the two portraits of Carl and Johannes Mueller seemed to stare at me as I poured their brew into my glass. Kinda creepy, but I braved their glances long enough to sample their beer. The color was nice, a yellow light enough to be bright. It was very light bodied, with only a small hint of clove. The aftertaste was clean, with the wheat coming out for a moment before disappearing altogether. All in all, it was decent, but not outstanding - maybe with a bit more bite I could invite the Mueller boys over for another drink.

Paulaner:

This isn't an uncommon brew, and chances are you can find it on tap at a decent bar. It's golden brown in color, and of course, it's cloudy as a hefeweissen should be. However, the first thing that struck me about this beer on the first taste was not the flavor, but its high carbonation. It's so active that when I put my ear to the glass, I thought I was listening to a bowl of Rice Krispies. It distracted me from the flavor of the beer as well as disrupting its body. After awhile, I could taste some spiciness, but very subtle - I wouldn't have minded them coming closer to the forefront. Overall, I was left feeling indifferent to Polaner - I'll take it if it's offered, but I'm not going to request it any time soon.

Franziskaner:

Ah, here's a great find - look for the label with the happy monk peering into a mug. With a dark golden coloring, this beer had a great mouthful, and it didn't pull too many stops on the spiciness factor - slightly malty, pronounced clove flavor, with a little bit of fruitiness. I almost regretted it being night when I drank this - it would be great for a sunny afternoon with a buddy or two and a lounge chair. Just like the monk, I was pleased when I finished, but kinda hoping for more at the bottom of my glass.