Guide to the Ultimate Beer & BBQ Pairings
May 23, 2024
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, there's no better way to celebrate the arrival of summer than by firing up the grill. It's the perfect season for outdoor gatherings, and what better occasion to perfect your grilling skills than with an epic Father’s Day BBQ? This year, make Dad's day unforgettable by pairing your BBQ favorites with award-winning beers from around the country.
The Ultimate Beer & BBQ Pairing Guide
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a weekend warrior, knowing how to pair beer with BBQ can elevate your cookout to new heights. Here’s a beer and food pairing guide to help you choose the best beers to complement your grilled delights:
1. Smoked Meats and Brown Ale
Smoked meats like ribs, brisket, or pulled pork pair exquisitely with a rich brown ale. The ale’s nutty flavor and malty richness complement the smoky, savory notes of the meats.
Why it Works:
Brown ale’s robust and nutty flavor profile enhances the depth of smoked meats while its moderate alcohol content ensures a balanced pairing that doesn’t overwhelm the palate.
2. Chicken/Turkey and Hazy IPA
Grilled chicken or turkey, with its mild flavor and tender texture, pairs wonderfully with a hazy IPA. These beers are known for their fruity and citrusy notes, which add a vibrant twist to the meat.
Why it Works:
The citrus and tropical fruit flavors in a hazy IPA bring out the best in poultry, complementing its juiciness and adding a refreshing contrast to the savory marinade or rub.
3. Seafood and Apple Cider
Seafood on the grill – think shrimp, salmon, or even lobster – pairs exquisitely with a crisp apple cider. The cider’s acidity and subtle sweetness highlight the delicate flavors of the seafood.
Why it Works:
Apple cider’s tart and sweet profile enhances the natural sweetness of seafood while its effervescence keeps your palate refreshed.
4. Grilled Fish and Wheat Beers
Grilled fish such as tilapia, salmon, or trout pairs exquisitely with a refreshing wheat beer. The beer’s light and crisp nature highlights the delicate flavors of the fish.
Why it Works:
Wheat beer’s crisp and refreshing profile enhances the mild flavors of grilled fish while its subtle citrus notes add a bright, complementary contrast. The beer’s effervescence also helps cleanse the palate between bites.
5. Spicy BBQ Wings and Hoppy Beers
Spicy BBQ wings, with their bold and fiery flavors, pair exquisitely with a hoppy beer like an IPA. The beer’s strong flavor and bitterness balance the heat and intensify the savory notes of the wings.
Why it Works:
Hoppy beer’s bitterness cuts through the spiciness of BBQ wings, providing a refreshing counterpoint that enhances the overall flavor experience. The robust hops also bring out the best in spicy sauces, creating a harmonious balance.
And to top it all off, consider joining a beer club to discover unique beers from craft breweries across the nation.
Join the Original Craft Beer Club
Ready to take your summer beer and BBQ pairings to the next level? Join the original Craft Beer Club and receive a curated selection of 12 or 24 craft beers delivered directly to your door. Choose from monthly or quarterly deliveries to keep your cooler stocked all summer long.
- Exclusive Selection: Are you looking for amazing club offers, unique craft beers from breweries across the country, carefully selected for their quality and flavor.
- Convenience: Enjoy the convenience of home delivery, ensuring you always have the perfect beer for your BBQ.
- Variety: Each shipment includes a variety of styles, so you can explore new flavors and find your perfect pairings.
This Father’s Day BBQ, be Dad’s favorite by treating him to a summer of unforgettable beer and BBQ moments. Order your subscription today and start pairing like a pro!
There’s no better way to kick off summer than with a sizzling BBQ and a cold beer in hand. With these perfect beer pairings, your summer gatherings are sure to be a hit. So, fire up that grill, crack open a refreshing craft beer, and make this summer one to remember. Cheers to great beer, delicious BBQ, and unforgettable moments with family and friends!
Get ready for a fantastic summer filled with the best beer and BBQ pairings. Join the Craft Beer Club today and make every BBQ a memorable one!
