We should have seen it brewing. The rise of the craft beer movement, coupled with the renaissance of cocktail culture, has created a new craze of beer-based cocktails. Planners looking for something different to serve at events may want to consider these refreshing beverage options concocted by creative mixologists across the country.
Barrio Mexican Kitchen & Bar
This Seattle restaurant specializes in south of the border food with a Northwest flair. Wash down your spice-rubbed duck tacos or habanero mussels with a margaveza. This margarita/cerveza love child is made with Lunazul tequila, agave, lime, Quady Winery’s Essensia Muscat Wine and Corona Light beer, and served in a 32-ounce mason jar.
Borgne
The drink menu at this hot spot in Hyatt Regency New Orleans features beer cocktails with a twist. Local Canebrake beer is the base for Braking Cane, which also includes Sazerac rye whiskey, steamed cane syrup and barbecue bitters. Snapdragon features 2 Gingers Irish Whiskey, ginger syrup and Crispin Hard Apple Cider with an apple slice.
Shanna Key
When life hands you lemons, make lemonade (and blend it with beer). That’s the principle behind the shandy. Savor one at Shanna Key Irish Pub and Grill in Key West, Florida. For something stronger, try Black Bush Velvet Isle, prepared with Irish whiskey, champagne and Guinness draught.
Cygnus27
The New York Times named Grand Rapids, Michigan, one of the 52 Places to Go in 2016. While in this Midwest beer mecca, visit Amway Grand Plaza Hotel’s Cygnus27, which delivers a Latin-inspired menu and sophisticated cocktail lounge with panoramic views of the Grand River. Be sure to try Mai-Corona (pictured), made with award-winning Zaya Rum, almond syrup, lime, mint and Corona Extra beer.
The Queen Vic
This traditional British pub in Washington, DC, features dishes such as Shepherd’s Pie and Bangers & Mash, along with a large selection of ale, stout, cider and lager on tap. In the mood for a beer cocktail? Sample Cardiff Bluebird, a mixture of hard cider, blueberry vodka and Sprite, or Noel’s Seduction, which contains Guinness beer, a double espresso shot and Frangelico liqueur.
