Anthony Norkus with Louis Glunz Beer, Inc. was in our ABC7 studio for advice. He suggests American craft beers to pair with grilled foods. The beers featured are available wherever better beers are sold, and the prices listed are suggested retail.
1. North Coast Scrimshaw Pilsner
North Coast Brewing Company, California
The brewery's palest beer, this is a fresh-tasting Pilsner brewed in the finest European tradition using Munich and Klages malts, and Hallertauer and Tettang hops. Named for the ivory engravings done by nineteenth-century seafarers, Scrimshaw has a subtle hop character, a crisp clean palate, and a dry finish.
ABV: 4.4 percent
Suggested Retail Price: $9.49/ 6-pack of 12-oz. bottles
Pairing: Grilled Bratwurst and Hot Dogs
2. Capital U.S. Pale Ale
Capital Brewery, Wisconsin
An American Pale Ale defined by the assertive, but not overwhelming, use of American Cascade hops. Exhibiting an inviting golden hue, U.S. Pale Ale is a zesty choice for those who believe that hops are "hip." Refreshing and clean with medium-bodied flavor and an easy, dry and memorable finish.
ABV: 5 percent
Suggested Retail Price: $9.99/ 6-pack of 12-oz. bottles; $16.99/ 12-pack of cans
Pairing: Classic Hamburger and Cheeseburger
3. Revolution Bottom Up Wit
Revolution Brewing Company, Illinois
A refreshing Belgian-style wheat beer, spiced with coriander and orange peel. Made with organic malt and wheat.
ABV: 4.5 percent
Suggested Retail Price: $16/ 64-oz. Growler ($12 Growler Refill)
Pairing: Grilled Seafood Skewer
4. Anchor Liberty Ale
Anchor Brewing Company, California
This beer was first introduced in 1975 to commemorate the bicentennial of the famous ride of Paul Revere. A special top-fermenting ale yeast is used during fermentation creating many of the subtle flavors and characteristics. Carbonation is produced by an entirely natural process called "bunging," which produces champagne-like bubbles.
ABV: 6 percent
Suggested Retail Price: $9.99/ 6-pack of 12-oz. bottles
Pairing: Grilled Steak or Baby Back Ribs
5. New Holland Golden Cap Saison Ale
New Holland Brewing Company, Michigan
This ale is a modern interpretation of a traditional farmhouse ale. A soft, pale beer, Golden Cap accentuates the flavors and aromas of summer fields. Brewed with an ancestor to wheat called spelt, and bottled-conditioned; its straw-colored body, accentuated with lively carbonation and unique fermentation profile, evoke fresh cut hay and cracked peppercorns. Available spring and summer.
ABV: 6.25 percent
Suggested Retail Price: $9.99/ 6-pack of 12-oz. bottles
Pairing: Herbed Chicken
