Which type of beer is often used in a shandy?

A shandy is a refreshing drink that typically combines beer with lemonade or another citrus-flavored soda. The type of beer that works best in a shandy is usually a lager or pale ale. These beers are lighter in flavor and have lower bitterness compared to other types like stouts or porters, allowing the sweetness and acidity of the lemonade to shine through without being overpowered.

Lagers, with their crisp and clean profile, complement the sweetness of the lemonade well, making the drink very palatable, especially during warm weather. Pale ales can also work effectively because they have a balance of malt and hop character, contributing to a pleasant flavor profile in a shandy while still being refreshing.

Other options, like stouts or porters, are darker and richer, which can create a heavy drink that doesn’t blend as harmoniously with citrus flavors. Wheat beers can sometimes be used in a shandy, but they have distinct flavors that may not appeal to everyone and can vary greatly in taste, which is why the classic combination tends to favor lagers or pale ales for a well-balanced and enjoyable beverage.