Four beers you need at your next picnic

Wicker baskets and plaid blankets might make you reach for a glass of rose or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, but packing some light and fruity craft brews can be a welcome change of pace. The best picnic beers are so much more than the thirst-quenching light lagers in cans with images of the U.S. flag. There’s a new flood of outdoor-appropriate styles, often with a Belgian twist, that are refreshing, light and low enough in alcohol that you can sip on them all afternoon.

The next time you’re off to a picnic, toss a few of these canned craft beers into your basket (along with these other picnic necessities).

Epic Brewing - Lil’ Brainless Raspberries: This is a session-friendly version of the Utah brewery’s raspberry-infused Belgian strong ale. The Lil’ Brainless cuts the ABV from nearly 10% to just over 5% but keeps all of that jammy raspberry flavor with a dry finish. This is one canned brew that you’ll want to pour into a glass, so you can enjoy the ale’s sparking pink hue.

Avery Brewing - Lilikoi Kepolo: Belgian white ales are one of the best outdoor drinking styles around. They’re made with plenty of wheat for a light tartness and a brisk finish that makes the beer undeniably refreshing. They are also lightly spiced (usually with coriander and orange peel) for added complexity. This tropical twist on the traditional style from Colorado’s Avery Brewing also uses plenty of passion fruit for an added deep, earthy twang.

Avery Brewing - Perzik Saison: Another option from the veteran Colorado brewery, this summer seasonal is a take on a Belgian farmhouse ale that’s dry, spicy and packed full of peach flavor. At just over 6% alcohol, it’s a touch stronger than the options above, but it’s by no means a heavy-hitter. It’s also begging to be served alongside some fruit salad, fresh goat cheese, or (better yet) cobbler.

Golden Road Brewing - Citra Bend: This new beer from L.A.’s own Golden Road is neither Belgian-inspired nor particularly low in alcohol, but it is a highly refreshing wheat beer that will please the hop lovers at your next picnic. Inspired by the hoppy wheat ales common in the Midwest (such as the cult favorites Bell’s Oberon and 3 Floyds Gumballhead), Citra Bend showcases the bitter-grapefruit punch and earthy undertones of the Citra hop variety. The brew has been in development for years, and it was finally released in six-packs of 12-ounce cans last month. Somewhere between an IPA and a clean-finishing American wheat ale, Citra Bend balances drinkability with a punchy hop character that keeps sending you back to the can for another sip.