When it comes to tailgating, choosing the right beer can enhance the experience, complementing the festivities and the food. Here are eight expert-recommended beers that are perfect for your next tailgating event.
Miller High Life
Pilsners are known for being easy to drink and pairing well with typical football game day meals. Surprisingly, even chefs favor domestic pilsners for tailgating. Miller High Life is a go-to choice for its light, crisp taste that doesn’t overwhelm, making it ideal for enjoying with a variety of snacks and dishes.
BareWolf Brewing’s Stranger in the Alps
Craft brewers excel at creating refreshing pilsners, and local options are always a hit. BareWolf Brewing’s Stranger in the Alps is a pilsner that stands out for its delicate and refreshing profile, coupled with a low alcohol content, making it perfect for extended day drinking sessions at the tailgate.
Bud Light
Bud Light remains a classic choice for tailgating, endorsed by Leah DeBay, A&B Bar and Kitchen manager. As the NFL’s sponsored beer, Bud Light is light and easy to drink, ensuring it won’t fill you up before you indulge in all the delicious bar snacks available on game day.
Lord Hobo 617 Lager
Lagers, the cold-fermented cousins of pilsners, are also popular on game days. While Coors is a common choice, Nelson Duran, Beverage Director at Kings Dining & Entertainment, recommends the Lord Hobo 617 Lager for its balanced taste and popularity among tailgaters.
Shipyard’s Pumpkinhead Ale
Ales have been a staple in the craft beer revolution, and Shipyard’s Pumpkinhead Ale is a seasonal favorite among beer enthusiasts. Leah DeBay enjoys this pumpkin ale, which perfectly captures the essence of autumn and pairs wonderfully with football season.
Tuckerman Brewing Company’s Pale Ale
Sweeter and fuller-bodied ales with a higher ABV are perfect for cooler weather. Barbara Beckwith of GM Mountain View Grand Resort recommends Tuckerman Pale Ale, a deep golden pale ale that is crisp and clean, reminiscent of fall in the North Woods of New Hampshire.
Woodstock Inn Brewery’s Pig’s Ear Brown Ale
For those who enjoy a richer beer, Woodstock Inn Brewery’s Pig’s Ear Brown Ale is a decadent choice. This nutty, caramel, and chocolate-infused ale is a favorite of Barbara Beckwith, offering a dessert-like quality without needing a spoon.
Devil’s Purse Handline Kölsch
Kölsch is a light-colored German beer brewed with ale yeast, noble hops, and light pilsner malt. This hybrid beer is easy to drink and pairs well with most meals, making it an excellent choice for tailgating. Devil’s Purse Handline Kölsch is a top pick for its refreshing and versatile nature.