ales

We should all give thanks for a holiday that’s centered around eating and drinking. No presents to buy, no stressful obligations – just enjoying an all-day meal with the people we love.

Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to crack open a beer or three. Here are a few of our favorites to try this year.

Festive Thanksgiving Beers

Getting Started

Thanksgiving is a long and leisurely affair, and you’ll have plenty of downtime while you chop veggies, wait for the turkey to roast, and watch football. Start with a smooth, easy-to-drink beer that will tickle your taste buds without leaving you napping on the couch before dinner is served.

Lagers
Lagers tend to be bright, crisp and approachable. Pace yourself and choose one with a low to medium ABV – it’ll keep you happy through a laid-back afternoon of cooking. Pilsners, German-style bocks or golden lagers are all excellent choices.

Belgian-Style Ales
Ranging from light, fruity witbiers to malty, spicy dubbels, Belgian-style ales offer a wide variety of flavors to help you work up an appetite. Start with something light-bodied and work your way up.

Try: Namaste

Main course

You know you’ll want to try a little bit of everything … and then a little more of everything. These beers are versatile and pair well with many different flavors, so they’ll take you through all the helpings you can manage.

Saisons
Saisons often pair well with poultry because of their citrusy, floral notes. Try one to bring out the best in your turkey and cranberry sauce.

IPAs
That little burst of hops in a good IPA can balance a rich, hearty meal and make everything on your plate taste that much better. Go for one that has a bit of a bite – but not so much that it will overpower your food.

Try: 60-Minute IPA

Dessert

After a tough day of filling your belly with delicious food and drink, you deserve a little more indulgence. Treat yourself to an unapologetically decadent brew to accompany your pumpkin or pecan pie.

Stouts
Comfort food in a glass, stouts are rich and creamy – the ideal companion to dessert. Opt for a chocolate or oatmeal stout, or one with spicy or malty notes.

Brown Ale
This warm ale offers just the right amount of smooth and spice. It is the perfect beer to warm up to.

Try: Punkin Ale

Don’t forget to stop in for our Pre-Thanksgiving Bash at your local alehouse the day before Thanksgiving!