Filed under: Olde Main News
Since the inception of beer, thousands of years ago, it has been an integral part of civilization. The Pilgrims who landed on Plymouth Rock knew this as well as any other society in history. Water was often a source of dangerous micro-organisms and beer offered safe nourishment that was vital to the wellbeing of thirsty men, women, and children.
“We could not now take time for further search or consideration, our victuals being much spent, especially our beer, and it being now the 19th of December.”
–Mayflower passenger William Bradford, 1620
The beer that was brewed and consumed by the pilgrims was a far cry from the local craft brews that we have available to us today. It was most likely very low alcohol content, “small beer”. This small beer would have had a very short shelf life and was consumed as fresh as possible. Due to poor growing seasons and to the tribulations of forming a new society, barley (and the means to malt it) was, at times, hard to come by. This necessitated that the pilgrims find other sources of fermentable sugars for their brew, a saying of the time reflects:
If barley be wanting to make into malt,
We must be content and think it no fault,
For we can make liquor to sweeten our lips,
Of pumpkins, and parsnips, and walnut-tree chips.
This Thanksgiving, as you prepare your feast, don’t forget what your local brewery brings to the table. Beer is a traditional piece of Americana and a perfect pairing for the flavors of a fall celebration. Here is a guide to help you celebrate the tasty holiday tradition of local craft beer.
Pre-dinner
As guests arrive and you await the Thanksgiving feast, you’re going to want a social lubricant that will loosen spirits while taking it easy on the pallet. A heavily hopped beer at this point could have the taste buds numbed and confused for the rest of the meal. Your best choice here is a lager or light-bodied ale that’s got just a hint of floral or spicy hops.
We Recommend: Gryph Premium Lager, Long Face Amber Ale, Dinkey Wheat Ale
Starters and Salads
Cheese, fruits and salads make nice starters that will perk up appetites and prime your guests for the meal to come. Think about pairing with a beer that will set off your spread. Don’t go too bitter or complex just yet. The light citrus and pine of pale ale or something with hint of spice would be a nice accompaniment.
We Recommend: Clone Pale Ale, Dinkey Wheat Ale
Dinner
The main event of nearly every Thanksgiving meal consists of turkey, stuffing, potatoes, yams, bread, maybe ham… am I on track here? This is hearty fare that is loaded with delectable fat and starches. You’re going to need a substantial beer that will stand up to and complement these flavors. Beers with earthy hops and malty characteristics of toasty caramel, toffee, biscuit, and smoke will be a nice pairing for the roasted meat and its starchy, sweet, or rich accompaniments.
We Recommend: Sticky Flapjack Maple Ale (brewpub specialty), Long Face Amber Ale, Off Kilter Scottish Ale
Dessert
Did someone say pie? A sweet ending to your feast we require a robust beer. Choose something that will compare to the decadent desserts without out doing it. A rich, malt forward, high ABV beer should do the trick.
We Recommend: Sodbuster Stout, Sticky Flapjack Maple Ale (brewpub specialty)
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