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Picking the Right Beer for Your Summer BBQ
If you’re hosting a summertime barbecue, you’ll almost certainly want to offer your guests a good selection of beers to have with their meals. Thanks to the sheer number of beers on the market today, though, picking out the right brew isn’t as simple as it used to be. Here are four rules that will help you choose the best beer for your next summer barbecue.
Think Light
If you’re having a summertime event, light beers will always be better than dark, heavy beers. Steer clear of porters and stouts and lean into lighter lagers, pilsners and wheat beers. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even consider serving a German hefeweizen in a cold, frosty mug for maximum refreshment.
Don’t Be Afraid of Hops
When it comes to beer, a hop-heavy profile is nothing to be afraid of. Serving an IPA with a high hops content can be a good idea in the summer, especially if your guests are craft beer lovers. These beers usually pair best with spicier meat dishes, such as barbecued ribs or pork chops. If you’re serving steaks, chicken or other meats that don’t get as much seasoning, a high-hops beer might not be as good a choice.
Embrace Seasonal Beers
Many breweries release special beers for each season. If you’re looking for a great beer for your next barbecue, consider serving a seasonal release your guests may not have had before. In the early summer, you’ll find several refreshing fruit-flavored beers hitting the shelves. As August and September approach, you’ll start to see autumnal releases, including a wide range of Oktoberfest beers, coming onto the market. Be sure to look at what’s available from local breweries, since you may be able to find a local gem.
If All Else Fails, Just Try Something New
Sometimes, you just won’t be able to decide on the right beer for your barbecue. If this is the case, just pick out something you haven’t tried before and roll with it. Part of the fun of beer is trying new things to find out what you like and don’t like. You may even discover a new favorite beer you would otherwise never have found.
When your next summer BBQ rolls around, consider using these four tips to help you choose the perfect beer to serve to your guests. Once you’ve got the right beer picked out, your party is sure to be a success.
