Hosting a beer tasting dinner with friends is a fantastic way to explore new flavors, enjoy great company, and show your love for craft beer. With brews from Craft Beer Club, you have access to an array of exceptional beers that will not only impress your guests but also give them an unforgettable evening. Here’s everything you need to plan that perfect beer tasting dinner:
1. Plan Your Menu: Pairing Food and Beer
The secret to a successful beer tasting dinner is pairing each beer, whether it’s an IPA, stout, lager, or sour, with the right dish. These suggestions can help you get started:
● Roughtail Brewing Co Nada Nada Fruited Sour: Start the evening with this refreshing fruited sour. Pair it with a cheese platter featuring goat cheese, brie, and fresh fruits. The tartness of the beer complements the creaminess of the cheeses by a notch!
● Roughtail Brewing Co City IPA: This Oklahoma IPA is dry and crisp with a citrusy hop aroma. Serve it with a spicy appetizer like buffalo chicken wings or jalapeño poppers. The hoppy bitterness cuts through the heat and enhances the flavors.
● Texas Leaguer Brewing Co Knuckle Bock: This rich, smooth bock pairs wonderfully with a hearty main course. Think grilled steak or a savory brisket. The maltiness of the beer balances the richness of the meat, giving you that 'oohhh' in every bite.
● Salt Flats Brewery Flat Out Hefeweizen: Light and fruity, this hefeweizen is perfect for seafood dishes. Try it with grilled shrimp or a seafood pasta. The citrus notes in the beer complement the delicate flavors of the seafood.
● Lakewood Brewing Company Lakewood Lager: A versatile Vienna-style lager that goes well with a variety of dishes. Trust us, pairing it with a grilled veggie platter or a classic burger is a worth-it choice! The subtle caramel notes and light maltiness make the savory flavors that star of the show.
2. Set the Scene
Create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for your beer tasting dinner to make your guests feel just at home. Take note of these few tricks:
● Lighting: Use soft, warm lighting to create a cozy ambiance. String lights or candles can add a nice touch.
● Table Setting: Set up a large table where everyone can sit comfortably. Use a tablecloth and simple tableware to keep the focus on the food and beer.
● Glassware: Provide proper glassware for each type of beer. Tulip glasses for IPAs, pilsner glasses for lagers, and goblets for bocks. Clean glassware enhances the tasting experience by showcasing the beer’s color and aroma.
3. Tasting and Talking
Encourage your guests to take their time with each beer. You can even come up with an interesting topic to talk about so that everyone has a good time with each sip. Feel free to follow this tasting process:
● Appearance: Start by examining the beer’s color, clarity, and head.
● Aroma: Swirl the glass gently and take a deep sniff to identify the aromas. Discuss what you smell – citrus, pine, malt, etc.
● Taste: Take a sip and let it linger on your palate. Notice the different flavors and how they change from start to finish.
● Mouthfeel: Pay attention to the beer’s body and carbonation. Is it light and crisp, or heavy and creamy?
● Finish: Note the aftertaste and how long the flavors last after swallowing.
4. Enjoy the Experience
A beer tasting dinner is not just about the beer; it’s about enjoying the experience with friends. Keep the conversation flowing, share your thoughts on each pairing, and most importantly, have fun—the true essence of this activity. Also, never do the following at a beer tasting dinner:
● Don't Rush: Give each beer and dish the time it deserves. Savor the flavors and take your time.
● Avoid Overloading the Palate: Stick to a reasonable number of pairings to prevent palate fatigue.
● Skip the Strong Scents: Keep strong-smelling foods or fragrances away from the tasting area as they can interfere with the beer's aroma and flavor.
● Don’t Forget Hydration: Drink water between tastings to cleanse your palate.
● Don’t Over-Serve: Serve small portions to ensure guests can enjoy all the pairings without overindulging.
5. Share the Fun
Finally, once everyone has had a taste of everything, it’s time to reflect. Encourage your guests to take notes on their favorite pairings and discuss what they like or don’t like about each combination. Sharing these experiences adds to the enjoyment and helps everyone learn more about their personal preferences in craft beer. Plus, this might even give your squad some new favorite brews for more parties to come!
Hosting a beer tasting dinner with Craft Beer Club brews is a delightful way to explore new flavors and enjoy quality time with friends. With good food, great beer, and even better company, it’s sure to be a night to remember…perhaps a little planning and a lot of enthusiasm too.