Beer of the Week: Cali Squeeze Blood Orange Citrus Wheat Ale

Summer may be winding down, but Newport Avenue Market is squeezing every last drop out of it.

From Tuesday, September 1 through Monday, September 7, Robert and the Brew Crew are featuring Cali Squeeze Blood Orange Citrus Wheat Ale. This fruit-forward wheat beer combines real blood oranges with a smooth, easy-drinking beer.

The result tastes bright, juicy, crisp, and wonderfully refreshing. It is the sort of beer that makes the long Labor Day weekend feel a little more golden.

A Wheat Beer with a California State of Mind

Cali Squeeze brews its Blood Orange Citrus Wheat Ale in California using real blood oranges. The fruit gives the beer its ruby-red color and vibrant citrus flavor.

However, this is still very much a beer. A smooth wheat ale provides the foundation, while the blood orange brings natural sweetness and tartness. Together, they create a balanced drink that feels flavorful without becoming heavy.

Cali Squeeze describes the beer as crisp, juicy, and easy drinking. At 5% alcohol by volume and only 15 IBUs, it offers plenty of flavor with very little bitterness.

What Does Cali Squeeze Blood Orange Taste Like?

The first sip brings juicy orange and bright citrus flavors. You may also notice a touch of blood orange tartness and zest.

Underneath the fruit, soft wheat and light bready malt notes give the beer body. The finish stays crisp and relatively dry, which keeps the citrus character lively.

Cali Squeeze uses two-row malt, white wheat, torrified wheat, Cara-Pils, and rice hulls. The brewery then adds real fruit instead of relying on artificial extracts or candy-like flavoring.

That matters. The blood orange tastes like fruit rather than orange soda. Meanwhile, the wheat ale remains smooth enough to support the citrus without competing with it.

Why Robert Recommends It

Robert chose Cali Squeeze Blood Orange because it offers an approachable bridge between fruit beer and traditional wheat ale.

People who usually find beer too bitter may enjoy its low 15-IBU profile. At the same time, wheat beer fans can still appreciate its soft malt character and slightly hazy body.

It is also an easy beer to share. Bring it to a Labor Day gathering, backyard barbecue, picnic, or end-of-summer dinner. The familiar citrus flavor makes it accessible, while real blood orange gives it personality.

Most importantly, this beer knows exactly what it wants to be. It is bright, refreshing, and uncomplicated. Sometimes the best choice is simply the one that tastes like sunshine in a can.

What to Pair with Cali Squeeze Blood Orange

Cali Squeeze Blood Orange works especially well with foods that complement its citrus character.

Try it with grilled chicken, fish tacos, shrimp, or a bright summer salad. It can also balance spicy dishes, including tacos, curry, and hot wings.

For a Newport-inspired pairing, serve it alongside soft cheese, salty charcuterie, or grilled vegetables. The citrus helps cut through richer foods, while the wheat beer keeps the pairing smooth.

You can even bring it to brunch. It pairs naturally with egg dishes, fruit, pastries, and anything that normally welcomes a splash of orange.

How Newport’s Beer of the Week Works

Every Tuesday, Robert and the Brew Crew choose a beer or cider worth discovering. Sometimes they feature a longtime favorite. Other times, they introduce something you may not have tried before.

From September 1 through September 7, purchases of Cali Squeeze Blood Orange count toward Newport’s Beer of the Week reward.

Scan your registered FoodeFlash Card when you check out. Once you spend $50 on featured Beer of the Week selections, Newport will add $10 in Moolah to your card.

Moolah works like in-store cash toward a future Newport Avenue Market purchase. In other words, we reward you for exploring the Wall of Beer. It is a difficult responsibility, but we believe in you.

Do not have a FoodeFlash Card yet? Ask an employee-owner or visit Customer Service. We will help you get started.

Squeeze a Little More Out of Summer

Cali Squeeze Blood Orange Citrus Wheat Ale brings together real fruit, soft wheat, and bright California flavor. It is crisp enough for a warm afternoon and flavorful enough to earn a place at your Labor Day table.

Find it in Newport Avenue Market’s beer department from Tuesday, September 1 through Monday, September 7. Ask Robert or another member of the Brew Crew if you would like pairing ideas or help choosing your next beer.

Please enjoy responsibly. You must be 21 or older to purchase alcohol. Featured beer is available while supplies last.