Pale straw to dark reddish-gold in color. A very thick, long-lasting head is characteristic. High protein content of wheat may impair clarity in an unfiltered beer, and clarity can be deliberately cloudy in a Hefe-Weizen from suspended yeast sediment. The filtered Krystal version is quite clear. The soft, grainy flavor of wheat is essential.
Hop flavor is low to none and hop bitterness is very low.
A tart character from yeast and high carbonation may be present. Spicy clove phenols and fruity esters, most prominently banana, are often present. The texture of wheat imparts the sensation of a fluffy, creamy fullness that may progress to a surprisingly light finish. A high carbonation level is typical. A traditional wheat-based ale from Southern Germany that is a specialty for summer consumption.