Super Bowl

Once again the “Big Game" is upon us. It is a time to gather with friends and family, fire up the big screen, and root for your favorite pigskin professionals. Of course no Super Bowl gathering would be complete without the necessary football fare. From light snacks to wicked wings to super sub-sandwiches, we all know that the food is as important as the game itself. But what about the frisky fluids to wash down all that glorious grub? Wine? Whiskey? Water? Nah… nothing says “Super Bowl Sunday” like a cold brewski. Now the real difficult decision begins; which beer to choose from the multitude of beers available. The Super Bowl is an American institution, so I suggest offering a selection of American beers. For snack food I prefer lightly hopped amber ales such as Rogue’s American Amber Ale. This brew has more forward flavors and will pair nicely with everything from chips and dip to zesty potato skins. If you want your mile high grinder to be the star of the show, then I suggest a beer with a less aggressive flavor profile. Sierra Nevada’s Kellerweis would be perfect. Its delicate flavors will allow the savory sub to shine through. If you have a passion for fiery hot wings or chili, then I suggest a porter such as Stone’s Smoked Porter Ale would be a great choice. With great food and great beer it is sure to be a great game, no matter which team wins. to help control the heat. For an all around crowd pleaser that will pair well with just about anything, you can’t go wrong with a Pale Ale. Berkshire Brewing’s mildly hopped Steel Rail Pale Ale would be a great choice. With great food and great beer it is sure to be a great game, no matter which team wins.

Beer 365 #164 New England Brewing Atlantic Amber

Beer 365 #164, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Beer 365- #164 New England Brewing Atlantic Amber
Pours a dark mahogany brown with a nice cap of off-white head. The nose reminds me of fruit cake. The mouth is somewhat dense and still. Sweetness is the main theme as far as the flavor profile goes. Sweet caramel malt dominates with just a smidgen of hops near the finish. (5% ABV)

Beer 365 39/365 Plam Amber Ale

Beer 365 39/365, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Beer 365- #39 Palm Belgian Amber Ale
The company that imports this ale (Latis) is based in the town that I grew up in so I've been enjoying it from day 1. This beer is all about balance and mass appeal. Nice semi-sweet nose of citrus/malt. Clean amber color, medium bodied mouth feel. Mild sweet malt flavors that aren't over the top, mild clean appealing finish. This is a beer that you can enjoy with friends that have varied tastes, and everyone will end up being happy! (5.4% ABV)