May I get you another fine handcrafted brew?

Ah, the chill of Winter is passing, at last, and some lighter, lagery types of beers are officially 'in', so here we go. Remember that ratings are from 1 to 5, with 1 being terrible dishwater shite, and 5 being the nectar of the gods.

MODELO ESPECIAL (Mexico) - 3.0

This clean, golden lager is a standby in Mexican restaurants, and for good reason. It's got a steady, malty taste that's consistent and not too light. An ideal lager that isn't too wimpy or watery. Refreshing!

MINHAS CRAFT BREWERY - MOUNTAIN CREST - CLASSIC LAGER BEER (Monroe, WI) - 3.0

Well, a craft beer in an aluminum can -- rare indeed! I had to double-check to make sure it wasn't a macro in disguise. Anyhow, this one pours a frothy and clear gold, with a fresh malty scent -- not at all skunky or funky like so many canned lagers. It's mild, easygoing, and, truth be told, a wise choice if lighter brews are your game.

MICHELOB ULTRA AMBER (St. Louis, MO) - 1.5

This clear, foamy lager pours an attractive amber, but tastes like your usual 'light' beer, meaning it's flat with no depth or complexity whatsoever. Sure, this may be a satisfying little brew for those sunny Summertime days in the backyard, but if you're into beers with actual flavor, kindly and wisely look elsewhere.

BUD LIGHT LIME (St. Louis, MO) - 2.5

Expected this one to suck, to be blunt, but damned if it wasn't all that bad. Pours an ultra-pale upon initial dispensation, with a decent head and a citrus bouquet. Tastes pretty smooth, with little to no aftertaste or followthrough. Maybe it's not very satisfying, but it doesn't outright offend, either.

STONE IMPERIAL RUSSIAN STOUT (Escondido, CA) - 3.5

This one's a whopper! Opaque, deep black, and strong as an ox. As with the best of the Imperial Russian Stouts, this one's got a burnt taste, less coffee or chocolate here, which gives way to a jagged alcoholic aftertaste/followthrough (it is 10.8%, after all). Not one for the timid (or light beer fans), this is definitely one to sip slowly and savor.

DUCHESSE DE BOURGOGNE (Belgium) - 4.0

This Flanders red ale pours a deep amber, and the aroma is sweet and fruity, like a fine wine almost. First taste? Still fruity and wine-like, with a pronounced sweetness that's followed by a little hint of dryness. Good stuff, and quite a pleasant surprise, even for a Belgian beer. Very enjoyable and complex taste, thus this one's well-recommended.