Lost Coast Tangerine Wheat 6-Pack is a tangerine-infused American wheat ale brewed at 5.5% ABV, available in a 6-pack of 12 oz bottles. This fruited wheat beer earned a Gold Medal at the 2010 California State Fair, reinforcing its standing among fruit-forward craft ales brewed on the Northern California coast. Quick Facts: ABV: 5.5% | Origin: Eureka, California | Style: Tangerine Wheat Ale | Brewery: Lost Coast Brewery | IBUs: 15 Production & Heritage Lost Coast Brewery was founded in 1990 in Eureka, California, by Barbara Groom and Wendy Pound, making it one of the earliest female-founded craft breweries in the United States. Tangerine Wheat begins with the brewery's Harvest Wheat base — a grain bill built on a combination of wheat and crystal malts — then layers in natural tangerine flavoring and finishes with Perle hops for a gentle bittering balance. The result is a low-IBU wheat ale (15 IBUs, original gravity 1.047) designed to highlight bright citrus character rather than hop intensity. Tasting Notes Aroma: Fresh tangerine peel rises immediately, backed by soft malt sweetness and a faint wheaty breadiness. The citrus stays dominant throughout without artificial or syrupy overtones. Taste: The entry is moderately sweet and juicy, with a pronounced burst of tart tangerine and orange that fills the front palate. At mid-palate, the wheat malt body emerges, rounding out the fruit with a biscuit-like grain note. A subtle citrus bitterness develops toward the back, keeping the sweetness in check. Finish: Light-bodied with high carbonation, the finish is clean and refreshing. Lingering tangerine zest and a whisper of wheat linger briefly before dissipating. How to Drink Tangerine Wheat Serve cold — around 40–45°F — in a standard pint glass or wheat beer glass to let the tangerine aromatics open up. A thin orange or tangerine wheel as garnish complements the existing citrus profile without overwhelming it. Beer Shandy: Mix half-and-half with fresh lemonade for an effervescent warm-weather drink where the tangerine adds natural depth. Citrus Radler: Combine with sparkling grapefruit soda for a low-ABV sipper that amplifies the tart citrus notes. Wheat Beer Michelada: Use in place of a standard lager for a fruit-forward twist on the classic, as the tangerine pairs surprisingly well with lime juice, hot sauce, and Tajín. Best For Backyard barbecues and outdoor gatherings where a light, easy-drinking beer fits the mood Introducing craft beer to friends who gravitate toward fruit-forward or lower-bitterness styles Beach cooler packing — a sessionable 5.5% ABV that holds up across multiple rounds Pairing with summer menus featuring grilled seafood, tacos, or fresh salads Frequently Asked Questions What does Tangerine Wheat taste like? It delivers a juicy, tart tangerine and orange burst up front, transitioning into soft wheat malt flavor with a mild citrus bitterness on the finish. The body is light and highly carbonated, making it refreshing and easy to drink. How does Tangerine Wheat compare to Blue Moon Belgian White? Both are American-brewed wheat ales, but Blue Moon relies on Valencia orange peel and coriander for its citrus character, while Lost Coast Tangerine Wheat uses natural tangerine flavoring and Perle hops with no spice additions. Tangerine Wheat is notably more fruit-forward and lower in bitterness at 15 IBUs. Is Tangerine Wheat good for beginners? Yes — its low bitterness, moderate 5.5% ABV, and prominent fruit sweetness make it highly approachable for drinkers new to craft beer or those who typically prefer lighter styles. Where is Tangerine Wheat made? It is brewed at Lost Coast Brewery in Eureka, California, a coastal city in Humboldt County on California's rugged North Coast. The brewery has operated in Eureka since its founding in 1990. What foods pair well with Tangerine Wheat? Grilled shrimp or fish tacos mirror the beer's citrus brightness. Light salads with vinaigrette echo the tangerine acidity. Mild goat cheese or fresh mozzarella balances the fruit sweetness with creamy richness. Thai or Vietnamese dishes with lemongrass and cilantro complement the citrus aromatics. Fruit-based desserts like key lime pie or tangerine sorbet create a natural citrus harmony. What sizes does Tangerine Wheat come in? It is commonly available in 6-packs of 12 oz bottles and may also be found in single 22 oz bomber bottles depending on market availability. Is Tangerine Wheat worth the price? Tangerine Wheat positions as an accessible, everyday craft wheat ale — priced in line with other widely distributed fruit-infused craft beers. Its Gold Medal pedigree and clean tangerine flavor deliver solid value within the fruited wheat ale category. Why Tangerine Wheat? Lost Coast Tangerine Wheat earned a Gold Medal at the 2010 California State Fair, validating what the beer does best: deliver genuine tangerine flavor without tipping into artificial sweetness. Building on the proven Harvest Wheat base with its wheat and crystal malt backbone gives the fruit a sturdy platform rather than leaving it floating in a thin, one-note body. At 15 IBUs, the beer makes a deliberate choice to let citrus lead while Perle hops provide just enough structure to keep the palate engaged. For a fruit wheat ale from a pioneering Northern California brewery with over three decades of production, Tangerine Wheat remains a reliable benchmark in the style.
