If you’ve ever cracked open a Cali Squeeze Blood Orange Citrus Wheat Ale, you know there’s something special about it.

But let’s be real, if you’re here, then you’ve definitely enjoyed your fair share of Blood Orange Squeezes, so you already know that. But do you know what gives each of them that signature, delicious zip? Bet not. So, grab a notebook and pen and maybe some gardening gloves (we’ll get to that later), and let us teach you everything you want to know about our juiciest, not-so-secret ingredient: Blood Orange.

So, that vibrant, citrusy punch we were talking about earlier? That’s 100% real, fresh California-grown blood oranges doing what they do best: making everything taste a little sunnier.

But blood oranges are more than just a delicious addition to your favorite fruit-forward beer. They’ve got history, health perks, and a serious claim to being one of the most uniquely Californian fruits out there.

So let’s talk blood oranges. Where they come from, why they’re amazing, and how they help Cali Squeeze craft one of the most refreshing fruit beers on the planet.

Where Do Blood Oranges Come From?

Trees, of course. But there’s much more to that, of course. Blood oranges may seem like the kind of thing California would dream up, but their roots go way back to Italy and Spain, to be exact. They first started showing up in Mediterranean orchards centuries ago, thanks to a combination of cool nights and warm days (sound familiar, Californians?). That’s what gives them their signature deep red color and that extra bit of sweetness with a hint of raspberry-like complexity.

California farmers caught on to the magic of blood oranges in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With the state’s Mediterranean-like climate and year-round sunshine, it was only a matter of time before blood oranges became a West Coast staple. These days, you’ll find them thriving in citrus orchards throughout the Golden State, particularly in our home brewing zone, Central California, where hot days and crisp nights create the ideal growing conditions.

The Rise of the Blood Orange Obsession

If it feels like blood oranges are everywhere now, that’s because they are. Over the past couple of decades, they’ve gone from an obscure farmer’s market find to the go-to citrus for foodies, chefs, and craft brewers alike. Their bold flavor, natural sweetness, and eye-catching color make them a star in cocktails, salads, desserts, and, of course, beer.

The craft beer boom has only added to their popularity. Brewers love experimenting with unique ingredients, and blood oranges fit the bill perfectly. Their bright, tangy profile pairs incredibly well with wheat beers and hefeweizens, making them an obvious choice for Cali Squeeze’s signature Blood Orange Citrus Wheat Ale.

More Than Just A Pretty Fruit: There Are Health Benefits of Blood Oranges

Let’s be real: beer is supposed to be about enjoyment. But if you can get some health perks along the way? We’ll drink to that. Blood oranges aren’t just packed with flavor, they’re also packed with vitamins and antioxidants that make them one of the most nutrient-dense citrus fruits around. Here’s what you’re getting in every sip of Cali Squeeze Blood Orange Citrus Wheat Ale:

  • Vitamin C Boost – Blood oranges are loaded with vitamin C, which helps support your immune system and keep your skin glowing.
  • Antioxidant Powerhouse – The deep red color of blood oranges comes from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation and support heart health.
  • Naturally Sweet, Low in Sugar – Compared to other citrus fruits, blood oranges have a lower glycemic index, meaning they provide natural sweetness without spiking your blood sugar.

Drinking Cali Squeeze might not replace your morning smoothie, but hey, it’s nice to know your beer is working with you, not against you.

Why Cali Squeeze Uses Real California Blood Oranges

At Cali Squeeze, we don’t do fake flavors. No syrups, no artificial extracts—just fresh, juicy, California-grown blood oranges that bring real fruit character to our hefeweizen. The difference? It’s all in the taste. Instead of an overpowering, candy-like citrus note, you get a smooth, refreshing balance of wheat malt and natural blood orange tartness.

Our blood oranges come straight from Central California farms, picked at peak ripeness to capture that bold, sun-soaked flavor. We work with local growers who understand the magic of this fruit, making sure every batch of Cali Squeeze Blood Orange Citrus Wheat Ale delivers the freshest, most vibrant taste possible.

Blood Orange Beer: The Perfect Summer (Or Anytime) Sip

Whether you’re kicking back on the beach, grilling in the backyard, or just looking for a beer that tastes like California in a can, our Cali Squeeze Blood Orange Citrus Wheat Ale is the go-to. It’s crisp, it’s refreshing, and it’s got that perfect balance of wheat beer smoothness and bright, citrusy zing.

So next time you pop one open, take a moment to appreciate the blood orange, California’s juiciest secret and the unsung hero behind your favorite fruit beer. Cheers to fresh flavors, good vibes, and the perfect squeeze of sunshine in every sip.