5 craft beer & barbecue pairings

Barbecue season is in full swing, and while grilled meats are fine on their own, if you want to stay true to ‘cue culture, ice-cold beer must be part of the ritual. But which brew to choose? Every protein has a distinct flavor profile, which means that not every meat is best paired with the pale yellow, fizzy stuff so often associated with barbecue. Luckily, the craft beer boon has given us more choices than ever beyond the ubiquitous lager. So before you fire up the grill and don your Kiss The Cook man-apron, head to your favorite beer store and stock up on these suds.

Schlafly Yakima Wheat Ale + barbecue chicken
Black pepper and juniper notes from Yakima Valley hops enable this spicy Schlafly brew to stand strong next to grilled chicken. Leave the skin of that bird on and stick with a simple seasoning like herbes de Provence.

Perennial Artisan Ale Peach Berliner Weisse + pork steaks
Peaches and pork are a classic combination. Act like a local and pair your pork steak with another homegrown sensation – Perennial’s tart, German-style wheat beer brewed with Missouri peaches. Its delicate fruit notes, dry finish and acidity make it an ideal match for the staple of St. Louis grilling.

Avery Joe’s Premium American Pilsner + spicy sausages
This sessionable beer made with noble German hops has the floral aroma, effervesence and subtle sweetness to cut through the heat of your favorite sausages. To change things up, add some fresh grapefruit juice or your favorite lemonade for a top-notch shandy.

Four Hands Cast Iron Oatmeal Brown + beef ribs
Don’t slather those ribs with sugary barbecue sauce. If you like a little sweet with your meat, pair it with this rich brown ale that holds notes of dark chocolate and coffee.

Firestone Walker Union Jack IPA + burgers
Malty-sweet with spicy hops and a citrusy earthiness, this West Coast-style IPA is complex enough to handle whatever variety of toppings you choose for that burger.