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German Berliner Weisse with a Shot

A refreshing and easy-to-make drink perfect for summer gatherings, featuring a tart wheat beer mixed with flavorful syrup.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 2 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Appetizer, Drink
Cuisine: German
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 bottle Berliner Weisse (330–500 ml) A tart, low-ABV wheat beer — or non-alcoholic sour wheat beer for a mocktail
  • 20-30 ml raspberry syrup or woodruff syrup Choose your favorite flavor
  • Ice (optional) Traditional versions serve without ice
  • Lemon slice or fresh raspberries, for garnish (optional)
  • 20 ml clear schnapps or fruit brandy Optional adult twist for a boozy shot

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Chill the Berliner Weisse well in the fridge for at least 2–3 hours (colder is better).
  2. Place 20–30 ml raspberry or woodruff syrup into the bottom of your chilled glass. Adjust syrup amount to taste — less for tart, more for sweet.
  3. If using ice or a garnish, add them now (note: purists usually skip ice).
  4. Slowly pour the Berliner Weisse into the glass over the back of a spoon or by tilting the glass to reduce foam and encourage a pretty layer.
  5. Pour gently until the glass is nearly full.
  6. Watch the color bloom — leave it layered for a showy drink or gently stir once to combine flavors. Stirring 5–10 seconds gives a balanced taste.
  7. Add a lemon slice or a few fresh raspberries on top, if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy this German classic!

Notes

Low-sugar/healthy swap: Make a low-sugar raspberry syrup by simmering fresh raspberries with a touch of honey or erythritol, then strain. Use 15–20 ml for less sugar. Non-alcoholic version: Use a non-alcoholic sour wheat beer or substitute with chilled tart kombucha or sparkling water plus 1 tsp cider vinegar for tang. Gluten-free: Look for gluten-removed or gluten-free sour wheat-style beers, or make the mocktail version with sparkling water + tart fruit kombucha. Vegan note: Most beers are vegan, but check for animal-derived fining agents. Boozy variation: For an adult-forward cocktail, add 20 ml schnapps along with or instead of the syrup.