Call it a boilermaker, a two-step or simply a shot and a beer – whatever name you assign this classic dive bar combo, it will spark joy. Typically, the pairing calls for a whiskey shot either plunked into a pint of stout or slammed and chased by chugging a cold, cheap lager, but sometimes we’re feelin’ fancy and want to mix things up. Whether you’re cheers-ing your new best friend at last call or just your cat from across the couch, give these boozy pairs a shot.
Miller High Life + Aperol
This pairing went semi-viral in 2019 thanks to Baltimore’s Wet City Brewing, where it’s served with a lemon twist. Light and fizzy with a good balance of bitter and fruity notes, it tastes like summer.
Old Bakery Beer Co. Blimey + Bacardi Superior Rum
We overheard a stranger order this combo one night at Up-Down STL and immediately chimed in with an order of our own. We were surprised by just how refreshing and at-home the rum tastes when dropped in a light, limey brew.
Civil Life Brewing Co. The Angel & The Sword + California Fernet
The Lucky Accomplice lends its namesake to this combo featured on its drink menu as an alternative to the classic Busch and Jameson. Nothing says bartender’s best friend like a local craft beer and a shot of Fernet.
Brick River Cider Co. Firehouse Rose + Pinckney Bend Distillery Handcrafted Gin
Gin pairs beautifully with anything sweet, pink and bubbly. Here, the spirit’s botanicals lend complexity and depth to the cider’s light apple flavor.
Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. Big Shark Grapefruit Radler + tequila
Less a traditional boilermaker and more of an easy, boozy paloma, this duo is perfect for turning up on a patio. Any tequila goes great here – we love it with an aged version, but you really can’t go wrong.
Modern Brewery Citrapolis IPA + amaro
A slug of Cappelletti Amaro Sfumato Rabarbaro is a shockingly tasty addition to a frosty pint of Citrapolis. The rich and smoky rhubarb flavors in this particular amaro balance the bright citrus and hoppy IPA bitterness.
This article appears in March/April 2021.