Home β€Ί Beer Reviews β€Ί Hoegaarden Radler
Independent Beer Review

Hoegaarden Radler Review

A refreshing yet sweet take on the classic radler style.

πŸ‘€ Reviewed by JamesπŸ—“ Updated August 2026
🌍BelgianOrigin
🍺RadlerStyle
πŸ’§0.0%ABV
🌱YesVegan
πŸ”₯23 kcalper 100ml

Pros

  • βœ“Light and refreshing
  • βœ“Great for outdoor gatherings
  • βœ“Crisp lemon flavor
  • βœ“Vegan-friendly

Cons

  • βœ•A bit too sweet
  • βœ•Not gluten-free
  • βœ•May lack complexity
  • βœ•Limited appeal for those who dislike sweetness
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Hoegaarden Radler Review

When I first tried Hoegaarden’s alcohol-free Radler, I was immediately struck by its light and refreshing character. The pour reveals a light cloudy amber color topped with a frothy head, setting the stage for a summery experience. As I took my first sip, the dominant lemon flavor stood out, making it feel like a perfect companion for BBQs and picnics. However, I found the sweetness to be slightly overpowering, which detracted from the overall balance of the drink.

Hoegaarden has a rich history, tracing back to the village of Hoegaarden in Belgium, where monks first experimented with wheat beer around 1445. The brand was revived in the 1960s by Pierre Celis, leading to the modern versions we enjoy today, including this radler variant. The Radler combines the soft wheat beer character of Hoegaarden with refreshing lemon and lime juices, which contributes to its fruity profile.

Even with its refreshing nature, I felt that the sweetness might not appeal to everyone. While I enjoy a good radler, this one felt like it was treading the line between enjoyable and cloying. It’s essential to consider whether you’re in the mood for something that offers a more pronounced sweetness, as that can be a dealbreaker for some.

Overall, Hoegaarden Radler is best served ice-cold, making it ideal for those hot summer days. Pouring it over ice with a slice of lemon or lime enhances the citrus experience, making it a delightful choice for outdoor activities. However, if you prefer something less sweet, you might want to explore other options in the radler category.

Hoegaarden Radler review image

Best Served & Pairing

Best served:

Best served ice-cold in a tall glass or over ice with a slice of lemon.

Pairing recommendation:

Pairs well with light salads, grilled chicken, or seafood dishes, perfect for summer meals.

How Hoegaarden Radler Compares

DrinkScoreStyleABVReview
Hoegaarden Radler66Radler0.0%Hoegaarden Radler delivers a light and refreshing experience with its pronounced lemon flavor, but it leans a bit too sweet for my taste. It's a solid choice for warm days or outdoor gatherings, although some may find it overly sugary.
Bemuse Mead66Mead0.5%A mead-style drink with a 0.5% ABV, offering a unique flavor experience.
Engage Fuzz Pedal66Ale0.5%Another 0.5% ABV beer, providing a similar score but distinct taste.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hoegaarden Radler really alcohol-free?

Yes, Hoegaarden Radler is labeled as 0.0% ABV, making it completely alcohol-free.

What does Hoegaarden Radler taste like?

It has a light and refreshing taste with dominant lemon and lime flavors, though it leans towards the sweeter side.

Is Hoegaarden Radler vegan?

Yes, Hoegaarden Radler is suitable for vegans.

Is it gluten-free?

No, Hoegaarden Radler is not gluten-free as it contains barley malt.

How many calories are in Hoegaarden Radler?

There are approximately 23 calories per 100ml of Hoegaarden Radler.

Where can I buy Hoegaarden Radler?

You can find Hoegaarden Radler in major supermarkets in Belgium and the Netherlands, as well as online retailers in Europe.

What food pairs well with Hoegaarden Radler?

It pairs well with light dishes such as salads, grilled chicken, and seafood, making it perfect for summer meals.

How should I serve Hoegaarden Radler?

It is best served ice-cold in a tall glass or over ice with a slice of lemon for added refreshment.

⭐ MyDryBar Final Verdict

66/100

MyDryBar verdict

Hoegaarden Radler is a solid choice for fans of light and fruity beverages, particularly for those who appreciate a sweeter profile. While it may not be for everyone due to its sweetness, it certainly shines on hot days or at casual get-togethers.

If you’re looking for a refreshing alcohol-free option, this radler is worth a try, just be prepared for its pronounced sweetness.

Score: 66/100 – Good

Would I buy it again? No.

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