Guide: Best Beer Cocktails
For most people, the idea of mixing beer with anything at all is unthinkable. Purists and enthusiasts will bulk at tainting their favourite brew with impurities. But like it or not, the beer cocktail is becoming ever more popular. And soon there will be no ignoring its place at the bar.
Beer cocktails have come a long way from the old student favourites of snakebites, boilermakers and shandies. Now they are mixed, not just to speed intoxication, but for pleasure as well.
So if you want to try a pint with a difference, have a look our top five cocktails to get you in the mood for summer.
1. The Black Velvet
Though perhaps not as sophisticated as some of the others, the black velvet is a classic among beer cocktails. First created in 1861 to mourn the death of Prince Albert, the dark layer of the black velvet is meant to symbolize the dark armbands worn by mourners.
The drink is traditionally served in a tall champagne glass, filled halfway with chilled stout beer, and with the champagne floated on top.
2. Michelada
Slightly more exotic than the black velvet, the Michelada was created down Mexico way, and brings some Latin American flavour to the humble old pint.
Made by mixing beer, salt, lime, chili and tomato juice, regional variations can be found across Latin America. A favourite hangover cure, The Michelada also makes an ideal pick-me-up on a sunny afternoon.
3. The Dirty Flower
This is a great one for BBQs or Picnics as you can easily make a big batch to share. Inspired by a classic New York champagne cocktail, the Dirty Flower is made by combining grapefruit juice, gin, elderflower liqueur (or cordial), lemon juice and wheat beer.
It may not have quite the panache of its champagne cousin, but you can guarantee the Dirty Flower will still hit the spot at your next cook up.
4. Beer Sangria
Sangria has been a staple summer classic for many years. Traditionally made with red wine, brandy and fruits, it is, undeniably a great tipple.
But if you’re not keen on wine or just want to try something different, how about a beer sangria? All you really need is some raspberry liqueur and a few blonde beers, but for a more refined version, add a chilled glass of white wine, a cup of raspberries and some thinly sliced orange to the mix. Serve with ice.
5. The Guinness Cream Soda
Last but not least is this alcoholic take on an American classic. Served in diners across the USA and enjoyed by teenagers for decades, the original cream soda contains club soda, cream and vanilla essence.
The boozy version uses vanilla and ginger liqueurs instead of the syrups, and Guinness instead of cream. To serve, gently mix the vanilla and ginger liqueurs with the club soda and half fill a pint glass with the mixture. Next, float the Guinness on top using a spoon until the glass is full, and voila.
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Comments (2)
Daniela L.
5
SEO
Thanks for your comment, I recently found out about beer cocktails as well, and I'm ready to prepare some of this for my friends next weekend, I'm sure they'll all love them :)
Paula van Dun
16
Retired
Never knew that beer cocktails existed! In Holland there are some special beer flavors which i tried but did not like at all. I guess I am one of the beer drinking purists. But I never tried a cocktail, they are sot served here as far as I know. Nevertheless I like the article