Radler

Radler is a refreshing German cocktail that combines equal parts of beer and lemonade, creating a light and zesty drink perfect for warm weather.

  • 5 min
  • Easy
  • Highball glass
  • 2 ingredients
Hero bottle: Beer →

Radler

Ingredients

1

Method

  1. Pour beer into large mug, slowly add the 7-up (or Sprite).
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What you need

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Highball glasses

Tall and straight, 10 to 12 oz, with a heavy base.

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A double jigger

Marked in oz and ml, with lines inside for the small measures.

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The hero bottle

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Where it comes from

The Radler is a classic German and Austrian beer-based cocktail (or shandy variation) that combines lager or light beer with lemonade or fruit juice, originating in the early 1900s. This refreshing, low-alcohol drink was created to quench the thirst of cyclists (radlers) during long mountain tours, and remains a staple of summer drinking culture in Europe.

Tips from the bar

  • Use a crisp, light lager or pilsner beer as the base for clean flavor profile
  • fresh lemonade or quality fruit juice should be equal parts with beer for proper balance
  • serve ice-cold in a tall glass for maximum refreshment
  • pour beer first, then add juice slowly to control carbonation and prevent excessive foam
  • garnish with lemon or fruit slice matching the juice used

Twists worth trying

Citrus Radler
Use grapefruit or lime juice for a more sophisticated citrus profile
Berry Radler
incorporate mixed berry juices for a fruitier, more complex flavor
Sparkling Radler
top with sparkling wine instead of additional beer for a lighter, more elegant variation

What to eat with it

  • Weisswurst with mustard
  • Soft pretzel
  • Grilled sausages
  • Fresh salad with herb vinaigrette
  • Bavarian cheese
  • Summer picnic vegetables

The finished drink

Radler

Questions

What is in a Radler?

A Radler is made with beer, 7-up.

What glass do you use for a Radler?

Serve a Radler in a highball glass.

What does a Radler taste like?

Expect refreshing, citrusy, light.

What can I make with Beer?

We have 16 drinks built around Beer. See them all on the Beer page.

More with Beer

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