Technically speaking, the term Hefeweizen refers to wheat beer in its traditional, unfiltered form. Since the yeast has not been filtered from the beer, it has a cloudy appearance. The style is made with at least 50% malted wheat and hop notes are very low.
The color of a Hefeweizen should be pale yellow to pale amber, with a notable cloudy appearance. The aroma should have notable phenolic character, with notes of cloves, bananas, bubble gum or vanilla. The taste should mirror the aroma, with notes of sweet fruits like bananas, cloves, spices and a slight sweetness. Bready yeast flavors should also be noted. The feel should be medium to full bodied. ABV should be 4.9% to 5.5%. IBUs should be very low at 10 to 15.
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