Anderson Valley Summer Solstice Cerveza Crema

Though it's an American beer style that originated in the 19th century, you may never have heard of cream ale. But you probably won't have any trouble drinking it. It's fermented at warm temperatures, like an ale but then stored at cold temperatures the way a lager is. So it's crisp and fizzy like a lager but with a little of the fruitiness of an ale. Malty, a little sweet and spicy, it's terrific with grilled brats or pork chops. From Anderson Valley in Mendocino County.

-- Charles Perry

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Quick sip

Price: About $10 per six-pack

Where you find it: Selected Beverages & More stores, www.bevmo.com; Liquor Warehouse in Huntington Beach, (714) 965-6000; selected Whole Foods Market stores, www.wholefoods market.com; Wine House in West Los Angeles, (310) 479-3731, www.winehouse .com.