Beer D-Mystified
/Beer is currently the most widely consumed alcoholic beverage in the world, with thousands of styles ranging from lagers and pilsners to IPAs, stouts, and sours.
Whether you’re sipping a crisp lager at a backyard BBQ or enjoying a stout with dessert, knowing the differences between America’s favorite beer styles helps you elevate both the drink and the meal. We hope the following information is helpful in doing just that.
An Overview of Beers & Best Food Pairings
| Beer Style | Flavor Profile | Typical ABV (alc. by vol.) | Best Food Pairings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lager | Light, crisp, clean | 4-5% | Burgers, pizza, fried chicken |
| Pilsner | Bright, effervescent, mildly bitter | 4-5% |
Grilled fish, salads, pretzels |
| Pale Ale | Balanced malt & hops, citrusy | 5-6% | Tacos, roasted chicken, spicy dishes |
| IPA | Bold hops, bitter, fruity | 6-7.5% |
BBQ ribs, curries, strong cheeses |
| Stout | Dark, roasted, creamy | 5-8% |
Oysters, chocolate desserts, hearty stews |
Pairings by Season
❄️ WinterBeer Styles: Stouts, Porters, Strong Ales Why: Rich, dark, and full-bodied — ideal for cold nights. Food Pairings: Beef stew, oysters, chocolate desserts, holiday roasts. |
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🌸 SpringBeer Styles: Pale Ales, IPAs, Saison Why: Bright, hoppy, and aromatic — matches the freshness of the season. Food Pairings: Spicy tacos, curries, goat cheese, spring vegetables. |
☀️ SummerBeer Styles: Pilsners, Wheat Beers, Light Lagers Why: Crisp, refreshing, lower ABV — perfect for hot days. Food Pairings: Grilled fish, fresh salads, BBQ chicken, citrusy dishes. |
🍂 FallBeer Styles: Amber Ales, Oktoberfest Märzens, Brown Ales Why: Malty, slightly sweet, and warming. Food Pairings: Roasted turkey, sausages, root vegetables, hearty stews. |