During the heat of summer in the Northeast, I’m a sucker for shandies, blonde ales, pilsners and golden lagers. So, when a few cans of Livin’ Salty—the new salt and lime lager from Sweetwater Brewing Company and Salt Life—arrived at the OTW office in a tackle box packed with goodies, I was already a fan. The cans, adorned with dancing marlins and vibrant lime-green waves, peeked out from behind a veil of Swedish Fish and Goldfish, just begging to be cracked open. Nothing screams “summer!” like the combination of lime and a pinch of sea salt. Disagree? Try a fresh shrimp or sea bass ceviche and get back to me.
When the clock struck Beer:30 today—which, between June and September, somehow becomes 3 p.m. instead of 4:30—I kicked back with a chilled can of Livin’ Salty and took a generous swig. “Salty, indeed,” I thought. “But not overtly hoppy, and definitely easy to crush.” On the back end of that swig, delicate notes of lime settled on my taste buds for a refreshingly smooth finish. Sometimes, adult beverages infused with citrus can be a bit too fruity, but the flavor profile of Livin’ Salty achieves a near-perfect balance of saltiness early on, followed by a mild maltiness that is punctuated by sweet & sour undertones. In a frosted pint glass, it has an inviting, bold golden color that further accentuates its drinkability.
This entire taste test unfolded in the confines of my cubicle, but I could easily picture myself reclined on a sandy beach, country tunes blaring, feet up on a YETI Cooler that is brimming with ice-cold Livin’ Salties. I imagine that’s exactly how the brewers at Sweetwater intended for it to be enjoyed.
“After the first couple sips, it really grew on me. Not too much lime—just the right amount. I give it a 7.5/10.” – Matt Ryan, Director of E-Commerce & Retail Division
“Delicious. A really nice, mild flavor. Perfect for long days on the beach or boat. 8.7/10.” – John Rust, Growth Operations Manager
Sweetwater Brewing Co. x Salt Life
Livin’ Salty
ABV: 5.0%
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Official Score: 8.4/10
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