Transition your mug from winter to summer with these fantastic spring brews.
Trees are in bloom, temperatures are rising and we’re rocking odd combinations like scarves and sandals. Spring has officially sprung, and for lovers of American craft beers, that means one thing: it’s time for some of the year’s most sought-after brews. We’re talking pale ales, copper ales and the like, whose not-too-light, not-too-dark character hits the spot as we say goodbye to winter and await the summer sun. These flavorful, refreshing selections really jive with lamb:
Sierra Nevada Glissade Golden Bock – Chico, CA 6.4% abv.
A lighter take on a traditional German bock (malt) beer with just a touch of sweetness, Glissade is made for sipping “as winter begins its slide toward the sunny days of spring.” Subtle malt flavor mixes with airy citrus, spice and floral aromas, courtesy of specially selected European hops. Easy-drinking and crowd-pleasing, this is one you’ll want on hand when you fire up the grill for that first backyard BBQ (or some easy Tuesday night lamb shanks).
Blue Point Spring Fling Pale Ale – Patchogue, NY 5.2% abv
Who needs romance when you’ve got this hoppy-but-delicate copper ale to woo you? Conceived as a cross between a malty German beer and a zesty American IPA, it’s crisp and refreshing, with nutty, honeyed undertones. Make a tasty sandwich with the leftover roast lamb from Saturday’s dinner party and kick back with this Blue Point on a sunny Sunday afternoon.
Ninkasi Spring Reign Ale – Eugene, OR 6.0% abv
A crowd-pleaser with an edgy label, this seasonal ale combines a lightly toasted malt flavor (like you’d get in a British Ale) with crisp, citrusy American hops. Fun fact: the ancient Sumerians worshipped the beer they made, and praised the Goddess Ninkasi for the miracle of fermentation. Consider the fact they also loved lamb, and we’ll let you guess what they were eating with their heavenly beer.
Dogfish Head Aprihop India Pale Ale – Rehoboth Beach, DE 7.0% abv
This “massively hopped” India Pale Ale is brewed with Pilsner and Crystal malts and (you guessed it) apricots. Rest assured, it tastes more beer-y than apricot-y, but the addition of the fruit makes for appealing aromas and flavors notes that marry well with the rich character of the hops. A winner with lamb chili or a juicy lamb burger.
FYI! These seasonal brews are all fantastic with meat pies, like these lamb-and mushroom-loaded delights:
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