A good wheat beer has something delightfully special about it, doesn’t it? Wheat beers quietly go about doing their thing and being utterly lovely, while craft beer lovers slam about the benefits of hazy IPAs and barrel-aged stouts. With their foggy look, banana and clove aromas, and pleasant fizz, they’re the type of beer that doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is exactly why we like them.
Wheat beers hit differently every time you crack open one, whether you’re relaxing after a long week or lounging in the backyard on a sunny day. They’re flavorful without being overpowering, approachable without being dull, and to be honest, they’re just a hoot to drink. The best part is that you can now experience these qualities without alcohol. Everyone can now enjoy wheat beer, even designated drivers, thanks to the growth of high-quality non- alcoholic beer choices.
So grab a glass (preferably a proper weizen glass if you’re feeling fancy), and let’s explore ten crackers that deserve a spot in your fridge.
1. Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier
The world’s oldest brewery has been producing the first wheat beer since 1040. This Bavarian beauty has a smooth, slightly sweet finish with traditional banana and clove flavours. For good reason, it serves as the standard by which all other wheat beers are judged.
2. Maisel’s Alcohol-Free Wheat Beer
This is a sign that non-alcoholic beer is now much better. The fruity aromas, spicy flavours, and signature cloudy pour of a classic weizen are all brilliantly captured by Maisel’s without the alcohol. It is actually satisfying, full-bodied, and thrilling. Ideal for long brunches when you still have plans for the afternoon.
3. Little Creatures White Rabbit White Ale
Australian wheat beer was made famous by a local legend. White Rabbit combines traditional Belgian witbier qualities with a very Australian mindset. Expect aromas of orange peel and coriander to dance with the smoothness of the wheat beer. It goes well with seafood and is sessionable and approachable.
4. Hoegaarden
The style was first introduced to many of us by the Belgian wheat beer. Hoegaarden is easily recognisable due to its zesty, spicy flavour. It may not have the status of craft choices, but its consistency is reassuring. There are moments when all you want is something you know will definitely work.
5. Weihenstephaner Non-Alcoholic Hefe Weissbier Beer
You can tell it will be unique when the oldest brewery in the world focuses on alcohol-free brewing. The texture and richness of its alcoholic twin are surprisingly preserved in this non-alcoholic version. There are hints of banana bread, the carbonation is perfect, and it’s quite refreshing. This alc-free wheat beer stands out in the zero-alcohol category; whether you’re buying it online from Sans Drinks or your nearby local bottle shop, it’s truly a bestseller everywhere.
6. Erdinger Weissbier
Erdinger, another powerhouse from Germany, expertly strikes a balance between sweetness and spice. Compared to specific wheat beers, it has a significantly bigger body, strong banana aromas, and a little clove finish. The kind of beer that explains why Germans take their brewing rituals so seriously.
7. 4 Pines Kolsch
Despite being defined as a Kölsch rather than a typical wheat beer, this Sydney favourite deserves inclusion due to its wheat-forward flavour. It’s clean, crisp, and dangerously drinkable. It is ideal for hot Australian days because of its light body and delicate fruitiness.
8. Schneider Weisse Tap 7 Unser Original
Schneider Weisse is a darker version of wheat beer that preserves the special smoothness of wheat beer while adding more malt character. Imagine a somewhat heavier, caramelised banana instead of a fresh one. It’s elegant without being stuffy.
9. Paulaner Hefe-Weizen
A classic Bavarian wheat beer experience offered by Paulaner. It shows why this style remains popular for generations because it is balanced, aromatic, and cloudy. The rich flavour of the yeast makes you want to take another sip.
10. Stone & Wood Pacific Ale
Although it is actually a paler ale than a wheat beer, its hefty wheat content and original Australian hop character qualify it for this list. Light, tropical, and highly crushable, it has become an icon of Australian artisan brewing. It is dangerously simple to drink since the wheat gives it a bold yet gentle texture.
Wheat beers have a special place in the beer world. They’re not trying to impress you with anything fancy or higher ABVs. They’re just honest, refreshing, and delicious, qualities that never go out of style. Whether you’re reaching for a traditional German hefeweizen or exploring the growing world of alcohol-free alternatives, the message is clear: wheat beers are having a moment, and that moment is saying try now. So next time you’re at the bottle shop, skip past the daily cans and grab something cloudy. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find out why this style has been a hot topic for centuries. Prost!
