Radlers

Radlers are a type of beer-based mixed drink that combines beer with a citrus-flavored non-alcoholic beverage, typically lemonade or lemon soda. The resulting beverage is light in color and body, with lower alcohol content than beer. A typical radler uses about equal parts lager and lemon soda, but ratios can vary from roughly 40:60 to 70:30, depending on taste and local tradition. The alcohol by volume typically ranges from 2 to 4 percent, making it a lower-strength option compared with standard beers.

Origin and name: Radlers originated in the Bavarian and Austrian regions of the German-speaking world in the early 20th century, created to refresh cyclists during long riding days. The name Radler, meaning cyclist in German, refers to its association with cycling; the beverage was quickly adopted across Central Europe and beyond, with many regional varieties using different citrus mixers, such as grapefruit or orange soda.

Variations: In addition to lemon-based radlers, some producers offer grapefruit, orange, or mixed-fruit radlers. In places like Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, radlers are widely available year-round, sometimes marketed as low-alcohol or summer refreshment beverages. In the United States and other markets, “radler” or “shandy” products may differ in sweetness and ABV but follow the same general concept of beer plus citrus mixer.

Serving: typically served ice-cold in a tall glass, often garnished with a lemon wedge. The term in German also denotes a person who rides a bicycle; in English-language contexts, the beverage sense is the primary usage.