I get very excited every time I visit Uncle Billy's Brewery and Smokehouse because I don’t know what I'll see written up on their board when I enter. Although, they tend to focus on their flagship beers, I have seen more experimental beers on their menu than any other brewery in Austin. This is mainly due to the brewers' desire to constantly push the limit and try new things.

Appropriately poured in a tulip glass, The SCHIZO PETAL-HIBISCUS LAGER is a new addition to Uncle Billy's creative brewing repertoire. What do you think is most prominent ingredient? You guessed it; Hibiscus flower. A hibiscus tea is injected directly into an already crisp refreshing lager. What is Hibiscus you may ask. Hibiscus plants are part of the mallow family and are known for their large, colorful flowers that make a decorative addition to a home or garden. Flowers and leaves can be made into teas or liquid extracts that are used to treat a variety of conditions such as: loss of appetite, colds, and nerve diseases. However, it is most commonly known for its ability to lower blood pressure. Hibiscus remains a popular herbal remedy in countries throughout the world and it is now appearing our beer! Drinking just got healthier!

There are five categories in judging a beer: Appearance, Smell, Taste, Mouthfeel , and Overall.

Although there is not as much emphasis on the appearance of beer, the ascetics of this particular beer take the cake. It pours a hazy pink color, and when hit just right by the sun emanates a gorgeous hue of magenta.

The flavor derived from hibiscus in beer is berry-like, fruity, and of course, very floral.

Summer just got prettier!