shandy

Shandy is a beverage made by mixing beer with a non-alcoholic mixer, typically a citrus-flavored soda or juice such as lemonade. The mixture yields a lighter drink than beer alone, with the strength depending on the beer and the ratio of mixer used.

Variants are regionally diverse. In the United Kingdom and Ireland, shandy usually pairs pale beer with lemonade or soda, commonly served roughly half-and-half or with a 1:1 to 1:2 beer-to-mixer ratio. In Germany, a similar drink is known as Radler, traditionally beer with lemon soda or mineral water and popular in summer settings. In France, Panaché refers to beer mixed with a lemon-lime soda or other citrus drink. Other forms exist, including mixes with ginger ale or ginger beer (sometimes called a ginger shandy) or with cola, depending on local taste.

History and etymology: The term shandy appeared in Britain in the 19th century as a diluted beer drink; the exact origin is uncertain. The German Radler arose in the early 20th century for cyclists seeking a low-alcohol option. Today, many regions use one of these terms to describe a beer-and-mixer beverage.

Serving and use: Shandy is typically served cold, sometimes over ice, in a tall glass. It is commonly consumed as a summertime refresher or as a lighter alternative to beer.