Written by Val Miller, General Manager of Timnath Beerwerks
What does the Fourth of July look like in 2020? It has been a stressful year, to say the least, and Independence Day may not ring true for all during these current times. I pray that you and yours have stayed healthy, and strong and have found creative ways to make the best of these last few months.
In the past, at least for our family, July 4th meant heading over to Timnath Reservoir with droves of other people to listen to live music, support food trucks and other local businesses, and anxiously await an incredible fireworks display. It will take another form this year, and I find myself reflecting on my childhood; on simpler times of small family barbecues, homemade ice cream, and sparklers. Nostalgia is defined as “a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past, typically for a period or place with happy personal associations.”
It could not apply more. The biggest difference for me as an adult, the addition of CRAFT BEER! I have memories of my dad sending me to the fridge to retrieve an ice-cold Michelob. He would often let me have a sip and even back then I found it refreshing on a hot day. Who knew that decades later, I would be the general manager of a small craft brewery in Timnath, Colorado? Now, choosing the right beer to pair with our cookout is just as much fun as the meal and festivities themselves.
Both barbecue and craft beer run the gamut of variety and complexity. One may spend hours, even throughout the middle of the night, smoking meat to perfection while others simply throw a few brats on the grill.
There are simple flavors or very complex varieties. Craft beer is no different. Pairing the two depends on your menu. Here is a guide to help with some of the more popular Fourth of July dishes.
Hamburger – A Pilsner or Blood Orange Pale Ale would work well for a regular burger with American, swiss, cheddar, etc.
Both have enough bitterness and body to balance out the richness of the burger meat and toast character of the bun.
Grilled Chicken- Would be complimented with flavors like a Blood Orange Pale or a Fruited Wheat or Sour.
Sausages/Bratwurst – The Copper Lager is a classic pairing for these delicious, but simple meats.
Pulled Pork/Brisket – Could go two ways with this one. Either a richer, malty brew like a Schwarzbier or a hoppy, citrus IPA if the flavors of the dish are a bit more intense. The Coffee Schwarbier would pair as though there was a coffee rub on the pork.
Ribs – A richer, bolder beer like a Stout will help cut through the fat of this dish. Will also play off any pepper or smoky notes.
Seafood/Veggies – With more delicate foods, you want to steer clear of bitter or strong beers and play more with lighter, crisp beers such as Pilsner or Copper Lager.
Dessert – Don’t forget your dessert beers. Something like a Raspberry Wheat Lager would go well with chocolate cake or even ice cream. A rich, stronger sipper would be a Doppleback with malty, caramel notes.
All of these beers are available in crowlers and growlers TO GO in our taproom. Stay and have a pint with us and ask our beertenders what they are digging right now.
The best news, you cannot go wrong with a cold beer in hand surrounded by great food and great friends! Happy Fourth of July to you all! Cheers!
Thanks to Val Miller at Timnath Beerwerks for providing this content to our Couples Workshop readers! To show this local brewery support please visit their website or follow them on social media platforms.
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