Hello Drinkers,
Tonight we’re toasting summer evenings with Leinenkugel’s Sunset Wheat and the 1995 Richard Linklater directed film Before Sunrise. Although this wheat beer hails from Wisconsin and this dreamy film floats through the streets of Vienna, the two have a surprising amount in common.
The film follows a 1990’s haircut Ethan Hawke and a lovely Julie Delpy as they get to know one another only hours after meeting on a train. The film is essentially 101 minutes of non-stop dialogue but, surprisingly enough, that didn’t bother me. While at times the existential repartee forced me to take a long, deep (and quite refreshing) gulp of Sunset Wheat, it was kind of nice watching a film that was purely about a relationship without being beholden to a driving story or a defineable destination. Rather, the film is simply an exploration of human connection. But what does that have to do with beer?
Leinenkugel’s Sunset Wheat is exactly the kind of beer you want when you’re having a long, thoughtful and meaningful conversation with someone. It’s flavorful, refreshing and is still quite drinkable as it warms. Like any wheat beer, it’s not for everyone. That strong wheat flavor can turn a few people off but that’s okay. There are plenty of other beers out there for you, which is how I feel about Before Sunrise.
The film is an acquired taste. The dialogue is rich, if not a bit heady, but refreshing and exciting once digested. And if you watch a couple of Ethan Hawke movies, you’ll learn that everything and everyone is made of stardust. Even beer.
Tonight’s Tasting Notes:
Leinenkugel’s Sunset Wheat:
Cloudy, golden color.
Strong honey and citrus flavors.
Refreshing and thought-provoking
Before Sunrise:
Heavy dialogue but rarely irritating.
Ethan Hawke is made of stardust.
Refreshing and thought-provoking.