As the weather heats up, so will barbecue grills. May is officially designated as National Barbecue Month, but Memorial Day often signals the start of summer as gatherings move outdoors to lakes and pools and backyard barbecues.
Great beer and barbecue are a dynamic duo, and we have the perfect combinations for your gatherings with friends and family starting this weekend leading up to Memorial Day on Monday and all summer long.
For your next barbecue party, pop the top on one of our newest additions. Desperados, brewed by the Heineken Company, is a tequila-flavored beer that packs a punch. This beverage was first launched in France in 1995 and has quickly become an international success. Blending hints of lemon and lime with the sweetness of premium tequila flavor, this top-quality brew is balanced and refreshing. We’d suggest pairing this slightly sweet and citrusy lager with any spicy fare like fish tacos or a classic, smoky and savory meal like Cades Cove BBQ Original Hickory Smoked Pork.
The official first day of summer is just a few weeks away so celebrate with a cold, ready-to-drink adult beverage. Parrot Bay Margarita, brewed by Captain Morgan, has pioneered a delicious spin on a traditional favorite. Infused with coconut water and lime, this malt is full of zest. The hint of orange and peppery tequila flavor will make a great match with fajitas and other favorites on the grill. The pepper notes and slight tartness of this adult beverage are a perfect pairing with the Boneless Chicken with sweet BBQ sauce from Cades Cove BBQ. The subtle sweet-on-sweet flavors complement each other well.
For a refreshing tropical taste that pops, try Twisted Tea Tropical by Twisted Tea Brewing Co., which has created an assortment of unique beverages. Classic Twisted Tea is mixed with passion fruit, star fruit, mango and other island-inspired notes for a sumptuous addition to any cookout. Twisted Tea pairs well with Carolina-style barbecue featuring tangy vinegar. The slightly sweet tea flavors contrast with the vinegar-based sauce for a mouth-watering summertime meal.
For more beer-and-barbecue pairing ideas, check out this May 23 segment from Mornings with Fox43. Jereme and Cindy from Cherokee Distributing Company share some great brew and BBQ suggestions.
As you fire up the grill and get ready for summer, these tasty beverages are sure to make any barbecue a hit. We also have some timely safety tips, courtesy of Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association.
So, crack open a cold, flavor-packed favorite and get something on the grill this holiday weekend to celebrate the season. We also never want to lose sight of the meaning of Memorial Day, and that is to honor the men and women who died while in U.S. military service.
A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day across the country. Please observe this moment of reflection for all of those who served our country. Cherokee Distributing Company offers its thanks from our company and our families to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
Cheers and Happy Memorial Day.