Sometimes you need to treat yourself to a refreshing new beer on a weeknight in the summer and celebrate the fact that you just started your very own beer blog! 56 Brewing’s NE Nectar was my choice for that mini celebration.

I love when brewers get creative with flavoring in their beers and this NE Nectar Honey Kolsch is no exception. At 5.0% ABV and 23 IBU, it’s a sessionable summer ale with a hint of sweetness. I’d venture to say this would be a good intro beer for non-beer drinkers as well.

Kolsches are light ales that usually have low ABV, low hoppiness and finishes crisp. They can be sweet or fruity as well. While a bit milder than what I usually enjoy, you can’t say no to a nice cold Kolsch on a summer day.

My boyfriend Mike and I biked up to 56 Brewing’s new taproom last month and of course ordered a couple flights. The space, which opened up May 5, is open and industrial. The outdoor space looks great as well - it was all filled up when we visited so we weren’t able to enjoy it! It’s definitely a welcome addition to the Northeast Minneapolis neighborhood. They also do a Community Supported Brewery (CSB) membership, which is pretty neat if you ask me!