Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe – A Wyoming Twist on a German Classic

Updated → September 2025

Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe is a refreshing hefeweizen-style wheat beer from Wyoming’s award-winning Lander Brewing Company. Bursting with the classic banana and clove notes of German wheat ales, this unfiltered brew offers a crisp, easy-drinking taste of Wyoming craft beer heritage. Read on for flavor notes, serving tips, and where to find it.

• Craft Beer in Wyoming and the Hefeweizen Revival
• Wyoming’s Growing Craft Beer Scene
• Hefeweizen: A German Tradition with Local Appeal
• Lander Brewing Company – Brewing Heritage Reborn
• An Award-Winning Wyoming Brewery
• The Story of Half-Tanked Hefeweizen
• Inside Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe
• Ingredients and Brewing Process
• Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
• Serving and Enjoying Half-Tanked Hefe
• How to Serve (Temperature & Garnish)
• Food Pairings and Occasions
• Where to Buy Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe
• At The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole
• Final Thoughts: Savoring Wyoming Craft

Craft Beer in Wyoming and the Hefeweizen Revival

In the past few decades, even the most remote corners of the Mountain West have caught on to the craft beer boom. Wyoming, known for its rugged landscapes and frontier spirit, has developed a small but vibrant craft brewing community. Local breweries are experimenting with all styles of beer, from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts. One style that has seen a big resurgence is the hefeweizen – a German wheat beer – which has found a welcoming home among Wyoming beer lovers seeking something smooth and refreshing.

Wyoming’s Growing Craft Beer Scene

Wyoming may have fewer breweries than some states, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality and character. In towns across the state, brewpubs and microbreweries have become community hubs. These breweries take pride in using pure Rocky Mountain water and local ingredients where possible, creating beers that reflect Wyoming’s clean air and adventurous spirit. From Jackson Hole to Cheyenne, residents and visitors alike can now enjoy locally made beers after a day of hiking, skiing, or exploring the great outdoors. Craft beer festivals like the annual Lander Brew Fest celebrate this growing scene, proving that Wyomingites have developed a thirst for unique, well-crafted brews.

Hefeweizen: A German Tradition with Local Appeal

Among the styles gaining popularity is the hefeweizen – a classic Bavarian wheat beer known for its cloudy appearance and distinctive flavor profile. The word “hefeweizen” literally means “yeast wheat” in German, hinting at the unfiltered yeast that gives these beers a hazy look. Traditional hefeweizens are beloved for their banana-like fruitiness and subtle clove spice, flavors produced by special yeast strains rather than added fruit or spices. Wyoming brewers have embraced this style because it’s approachable, thirst-quenching, and perfect for warm summer days. For many beer drinkers who might shy away from bitter IPAs, a well-made hefeweizen offers a gentler gateway into craft beer. It’s no surprise that Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe has become a local favorite – it combines an Old World beer heritage with Wyoming’s craft flair.

Lander Brewing Company – Brewing Heritage Reborn

Lander, Wyoming is a small town with a big history in brewing. In fact, the original Lander brewery operated in the late 1800s before shutting down during Prohibition. Fast-forward over a century: in the 2000s, the Lander Brewing Company was reborn, bringing fresh beer back to the community. This revival started as a modest operation serving a local bar and grill, but it quickly gained a following. Today, Lander Brewing Company is recognized across the state for its quality and consistency, brewing beers “to style” with a focus on authenticity and taste.

An Award-Winning Wyoming Brewery

Despite its remote location, Lander Brewing Company has earned an impressive reputation. Under the guidance of brewmaster David Morton and his team, the brewery has garnered numerous awards. In 2011, Lander Brewing won the coveted Saratoga Steinley Cup, distinguishing it as the top microbrewery in Wyoming that year. The brewery’s beers have also medaled at prestigious competitions like the Great American Beer Festival and the North American Brewers Association. Such accolades testify that this little Wyoming brewery can compete with much larger breweries when it comes to flavor and craftsmanship. Key to their success is a dedication to high-quality ingredients – including exceptionally pure water from the Wind River Mountains – and a commitment to brewing true-to-tradition beers that still feel right at home in Wyoming’s mountain town culture.

The Story of Half-Tanked Hefeweizen

Among Lander Brewing’s lineup, the Half Tanked Hefe holds a special place. The playful name “Half Tanked” brings a smile – it’s a lighthearted nod to the beer’s easy-drinking nature (you might get “half-tanked,” or pleasantly buzzed, if you enjoy a few). This hefeweizen quickly became one of Lander Brewing’s flagship offerings due to its broad appeal. Locals and visitors came to love this brew on tap at the historic Lander Bar, especially during the summer months. As demand grew, Lander Brewing began canning the Half Tanked Hefe so beer enthusiasts around Wyoming could enjoy it at home. By 2025, you can even find it in packaged 4-packs or 6-packs in select stores statewide. The Half Tanked Hefeweizen’s legacy is that of a beer that helped put Lander Brewing on the map, showcasing how a small-town brewery can honor a European beer style while giving it a Wyoming identity.

Inside Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe

So what exactly makes the Half Tanked Hefe so enjoyable? Let’s take a closer look at how it’s made and what you can expect when you pour a glass. This beer is a classic hefeweizen at heart, brewed with traditional methods that highlight its wheat base and special yeast. Yet, it’s crafted by Wyoming hands, which somehow makes that first sip even more satisfying when you know the backstory.

Ingredients and Brewing Process

The foundation of Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe is a high proportion of wheat malt blended with barley malt. Using at least 50% wheat gives the beer a smooth, bready body and a pale golden color. During the brew, hops are kept to a minimum – just enough to balance sweetness but not enough to add any noticeable bitterness (in fact, the bitterness rating is a very low 7 IBU). The real star is the yeast: Lander Brewing uses a traditional Bavarian yeast strain, the kind once cultivated in German monasteries, which is responsible for those signature banana and clove flavors. Fermentation with this yeast at the proper temperature creates the fruity esters and spicy phenols that define a hefeweizen. Importantly, the Half Tanked Hefe is unfiltered (“hefe” beers are typically unfiltered), meaning the yeast remains in the beer when it’s served. This not only adds a gentle haze to the appearance but also contributes to a fuller taste and mouthfeel. Every batch is brewed in small quantities to ensure freshness. From mash to bottle (or keg), the process is focused on preserving the delicate wheat character and the unique yeast-driven flavors that make this beer so distinctive.

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

Pouring a Half Tanked Hefe, you’ll notice its inviting look right away. It fills the glass with a hazy, sunlit straw color capped by a fluffy white head. Some of that cloudiness comes from the suspended yeast and proteins from the wheat – a hallmark of the style. Bring the glass to your nose, and the aroma is like walking through a summer farmers’ market: you get a whiff of ripe banana, a hint of clove or maybe even bubblegum spice, and a touch of bread dough sweetness. There’s no obvious hop aroma – this beer isn’t about hops, after all.

Take a sip, and the flavors follow through beautifully. The first impression is soft and wheaty; think gentle notes of grain and maybe a little tang reminiscent of crackers or bread. Next comes that yeast complexity: subtle banana flavors (like banana bread) and a light clove-like spice that tingles the taste buds without overpowering. Despite these rich-sounding flavors, Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe is actually quite crisp and refreshing. The finish is very clean, with virtually no bitterness lingering. At about 5.4% ABV, it has a medium-light body – enough to feel satisfying but still utterly drinkable on a warm afternoon. Many describe it as smooth, slightly tangy, and incredibly refreshing. In short, it’s the kind of beer that can please both craft beer newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts. It’s complex in flavor yet remains easy-going and balanced, which is exactly why so many people in Wyoming have grown fond of this brew.

A pint of Half Tanked Hefe served at the Lander Bar with a fresh orange slice. This unfiltered wheat ale has a naturally hazy glow and a foamy head, delivering classic banana and clove aromas.

Serving and Enjoying Half-Tanked Hefe

Part of the fun of a hefeweizen like the Half Tanked Hefe is how you serve and savor it. Because it’s a beer style deeply rooted in tradition, there are a few tips to get the best experience. You’ll also find that this beer’s versatile, food-friendly nature makes it a great choice for pairing with meals or enjoying during your favorite Wyoming adventures.

How to Serve (Temperature & Garnish)

For optimal enjoyment, serve Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe well chilled, but not ice-cold. A temperature around 40–45°F (4–7°C) is often recommended – cold enough to refresh, but warm enough to let those delicate flavors shine through. When pouring from a can or bottle, tilt your glass and pour slowly to build a nice frothy head. Pause when there’s about an inch of beer left in the can; give the can a gentle swirl to rouse any yeast that’s settled at the bottom, then pour the rest. This will make your beer extra hazy and flavorful (that yeast is full of B-vitamins too!). Traditionally, hefeweizens are served in tall, vase-shaped wheat beer glasses that showcase their color and support the foam, but any pint glass will do in a pinch.

You might have noticed bars serving wheat beers with a slice of lemon or orange – that’s a common custom, and you can certainly try it with Half Tanked Hefe. A wedge of citrus can amplify the beer’s natural citrusy tang and clove aromas. Many enjoy an orange slice perched on the rim of the glass, as seen at the Lander Bar. That said, purists sometimes prefer to skip the fruit garnish to fully appreciate the yeast-driven flavors on their own. It really comes down to personal preference. Either way, this beer is meant to be enjoyed in a relaxed setting – think backyard barbecue, river float trip, or just kicking back after work. Pour it right, serve it cold but not freezing, and you’re in for a treat.

Food Pairings and Occasions

The gentle sweetness and spice of Half Tanked Hefe make it a fantastic beer to pair with food. If you’re snacking, it goes brilliantly with pretzels (bringing a bit of Bavaria to Wyoming) and tangy dips. For meals, consider lighter fare: the beer’s banana and clove notes complement grilled chicken, fish tacos, or a fresh summer salad. It’s also a classic match for bratwurst or weisswurst sausages – add a little mustard on the side and you have a German-inspired feast. Spicy foods are another surprisingly good match; the soft wheat malt can cool down heat, and the beer’s low bitterness won’t clash with bold spices. Try it with a plate of nachos or some buffalo wings and you’ll likely be pleased.

Occasion-wise, Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe is truly an all-rounder. Its refreshing quality makes it a go-to summer beer – perfect for a lakeside camping trip or an afternoon at a backyard cookout. Yet it’s flavorful enough to enjoy year-round, perhaps après-ski by the fireplace when you want something not too heavy. At 5.4% ABV, it’s moderate in strength, so you can have a couple without being knocked out – hence the cheeky “Half Tanked” name. Whether you’re raising a glass at a family get-together or toasting a personal milestone, this approachable wheat beer fits right in. Just remember: like any alcohol, enjoy responsibly and savor the moment.

Where to Buy Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe

If you’re in the Jackson Hole area and eager to try this Wyoming craft brew, you’re in luck. Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe is one of the local favorites carried by stores that champion regional beer. Availability can sometimes be limited – remember, this is a small-batch craft beer – but it’s often found at specialty shops and liquor stores with strong craft beer selections.

At The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole

Your best bet in Jackson Hole is to check The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole, which proudly stocks a wide range of Wyoming microbrews. In fact, The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole (often called TLS by locals) has the largest selection of beer, wine, and spirits in the region, so it’s a go-to source for finding brews like Half Tanked Hefe. This beer is typically sold in convenient 12 oz cans, and often in a 6-pack. The price for a 6-pack of Half Tanked Hefe is around $18.29 at this store. Keep in mind that craft beer from a small brewery can be a bit pricier than mass-market beer, but you’re paying for local craftsmanship and quality ingredients – a trade well worth it for beer enthusiasts.

As of the latest update, Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe has been very popular, and there are times it might be temporarily out of stock. Don’t be discouraged – you can use the “Get Notified” feature on the store’s website or simply ask the friendly staff when it’s expected back. They receive deliveries regularly, and as a locally owned store, they do their best to support Wyoming breweries and keep favorites like this on the shelves. The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole also offers local delivery (every day from noon to 8:00 PM), so you can even have your beer brought to your door if you’re in the area. If you happen to visit the store in person, you’ll find it at 115 Buffalo Way in Jackson, right next to Albertsons. It’s open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, making it easy to swing by at your convenience.

Outside of Jackson Hole, you may find Half Tanked Hefe on tap at select bars (for example, it’s been spotted at beer festivals and at the brewery’s own Lander Bar). Some other bottle shops around Wyoming might carry it too, especially in towns like Lander, Riverton, or Casper where Lander Brewing has distribution. However, if you’re in Jackson, The Liquor Store is your top recommendation. They not only carry this beer when available, but also can suggest similar wheat beers or other Lander Brewing offerings (like their On Belay IPA or Jack Mormon Pale Ale) if you’re curious. It’s all about enjoying the local craft beer experience, and this store has you covered.

Final Thoughts: Savoring Wyoming Craft

Lander Brewing Half Tanked Hefe is more than just a beer – it’s a taste of Wyoming’s craft renaissance, a blend of German brewing tradition with Cowboy State character. From the first pour of hazy golden beer to the last smooth sip, it’s clear why this hefeweizen has earned its place in the hearts of many Jackson Hole and Lander locals. Whether you’re a traveler seeking regional flavors or a resident proud of home-state brews, Half Tanked Hefe delivers a satisfying and memorable experience. Its balance of fruity, spicy yeast notes with crisp drinkability makes it the kind of beer you’ll want to share with friends on a sunny afternoon.

Ready to give it a try? If you’re of age, don’t miss the opportunity to pick up a pack of Half Tanked Hefe next time you visit The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole. It’s the perfect way to cap off a day in the mountains or to simply relax and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each batch. With its award-winning pedigree and universal appeal, this brew proves that great beer can come from anywhere – including a small brewery in Lander, WY. Cheers to enjoying a true Wyoming original, and as always, drink responsibly and savor every drop!