Most people don’t use the words “Thanksgiving” and “beer” in the same sentence. It’s usually wine or after-dinner liquors that take over the drinks conversation. However, we’re here to tell you that “Thanksgiving beer” is real and there are plenty of great beer options out there that pair well with the meal.
Thanksgiving dinner beer pairings
There is a lot of debate as to what is the best beer to serve with Thanksgiving dinner, the problem is that everyone’s palate is different and one person might like a spicy pumpkin beer with turkey while another prefers a hoppy IPA or a hearty brown ale. After much trial and error we have decided on what perfect beer is for the gastronomical marathon that is a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
We find that Belgian style saisons and biere de gardes are the perfect match for the various Thanksgiving dishes. The amber colored Biere De Garde and the American brown ale counterpart both are a perfect fit for the autumnal flavors of the Turkey Day plate. Sasions also serve as a lighter, dry and crisp refreshment to wash down course of course of turkey and mashed potatoes.
Bière de Garde in detail
Bière de garde is the style we most frequently recommend as a versatile Thanksgiving beer. Generally speaking, these beers are assertive enough in alcohol and carbonation to stand up to richness but subtle enough in flavor to avoid dominating the more delicate Thanksgiving dishes. The amber (or “ambrée”) versions of the style commonly sport sport bready, toasty and caramelly malt flavor alongside fruity and spicy yeast character and mild hop bitterness.
And don’t forget dessert!
Thanksgiving dessert is another subject altogether, this is where the spicy and sweet Pumpkin Ales truly shine, as well as stronger malty Barleywines and Old Ales that can replace a fine port or sherry as a delicious after dinner tipple.
For some excellent Thanksgiving beers available at Vinnin Liquors, check out this month’s What’s Brewin’!
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