Beer Cocktails

America's favorite summertime adult beverage, whether for the barbecue or even after just mowing the backyard, remains the ice cold beer. This summer, mix it up a bit and try a beer cocktail. We know we don't need to completely reinvent the wheel, but some of the latest craft beer cocktails are a great way to mix it up. Literally.

 

From Alchemy's South Park Punch that incorporates a summery saison with southern comfort and Aperol to   the Bloody Mary-esque Michelada (beer, lime juice, and hot sauce in an ice-filled, salt-rimmed glass), beer cocktails are as diverse as the brews that make them up to the people that enjoy them. 

Around here, we've experimented and really like mixing IPAs (India Pale Ales) with a hard cider like Crispin. Similar in theory to the Snakebite (Guinness and Cripsin) and Black and Tan (Guinness and a Light Colored Ale), these "Apples of our IPA" are a light, fruity and delicious summer concoction, if we do say so ourselves. 

Another great summery concoction is the Shandy. Combining beer with ginger ale, ginger beer, or carbonated lemonade, it's a light, sparkly option.

For a dessert beer cocktail, top a rich stout with ice cream that complements the beer flavors for a float. Think root beer float, but better!

No matter what you decide to mix with your beer, choose liquors and other elements that draw out the flavors and essences already present in your favorite brews.

Happy mixing, and make sure to let us know if your inner mixologist stumbles upon something we just have to try!