Innovative Beer Cocktails To Try This Season

Craft beer offers versatility, and if you’ve never experimented with beer cocktails, now’s the time! In this blog, we’re diving into what to know about beer cocktails, from mixing techniques to choosing the right beer. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just curious about trying something new, this guide will introduce you to exciting ways to enjoy Rio Bravo Brewing's unique beers.

How To Make Beer Cocktails

Beer cocktails can elevate your drinking experience by combining the effervescence of beer with the flavors of spirits, juices, and even syrups. Learning how to make beer cocktails is easier than you think. Start by choosing the right beer, then pair it with complementary flavors.

For instance, Rio Bravo’s Chamoy Mango Tajin Sour pairs perfectly with a splash of mezcal and lime juice to create a tropical twist on a classic margarita. Another popular combination is the Honey Ginger Blonde Ale, mixed with ginger syrup and a touch of bourbon for a warming cocktail with a spicy kick.

To make beer cocktails, remember these steps:

1. Choose your base beer: Decide whether you want a lager, IPA, or something more experimental.
2. Pair with a spirit or mixer: The key is to enhance the beer’s flavor without overpowering it.
3. Balance the flavors: Use syrups, juices, or herbs to balance bitterness with sweetness or acidity.

What Kind of Beer Would Work Best for a Cocktail?

Selecting the right beer for a cocktail depends on the style and flavor profile you're aiming for. When considering what kind of beer works best, lighter beers tend to offer more flexibility in terms of mixability.

Rio Bravo Especial

A crisp lager like Rio Bravo’s Rio Bravo Especial is perfect for creating refreshing, light cocktails. The Mexican lager's subtle maltiness and clean finish make it ideal for mixing with citrus-based ingredients. A simple lager shandy, made by mixing beer with lemonade or soda, is an easy, crowd-pleasing cocktail. Add a dash of tequila to elevate the experience!

ESB Amber

For a richer, maltier experience, try using ESB Amber in a beer cocktail. Its slightly sweet and hoppy flavor lends itself to darker spirits like rum or whiskey. Consider mixing this with a shot of spiced rum and a splash of apple cider for a cozy, autumn-inspired drink. The deep malt character of our ESB Amber blends seamlessly with the warming spices of the rum.

What Not To Mix With Beer: Avoiding Common Mistakes in Beer Cocktails

While beer cocktails open up a world of creative possibilities, there are some pitfalls to avoid. Knowing what not to mix with beer can save you from unappetizing concoctions.

1. Heavy cream or dairy: Beer’s carbonation doesn’t typically play well with dairy products, often leading to curdling.
2. Excessive sweetness: Be cautious with sweet liqueurs and syrups, as they can quickly overpower the nuanced flavors of craft beer, especially hoppy varieties like Freak Juice IPA or our Rio Bravo IPA.
3. Overpowering spirits: Strong spirits like absinthe or overproof rum can mask the beer’s flavor. Stick to spirits that complement rather than dominate.

To Shake or Not To Shake: Mixing Techniques in Beer Cocktails

When it comes to cocktail mixing techniques, a crucial consideration with beer cocktails is whether to shake or stir. Beer, being carbonated, requires a gentle touch to retain its fizz. Here's a guide on how to handle different mixing techniques:

1. Stirring: For most beer cocktails, stirring is the preferred method. It gently blends the ingredients without agitating the carbonation. This works especially well when you’re mixing a beer with a fruit liqueur or soda.
2. Layering: For visual appeal and a more delicate taste, try layering your ingredients. Pour your beer slowly over a spoon to prevent the layers from mixing too much.
3. Shaking: If your cocktail contains beer and non-carbonated mixers (like juice or syrups), you can shake the other ingredients first before topping it off with beer. Just don’t shake the beer itself, as this will result in a foamy, messy pour.

Crafting beer cocktails is an exciting way to experience the Rio Bravo menu, offering endless possibilities for flavor exploration. From mixing Rio Bravo Especial with tequila for a light and zesty margarita to pairing ESB Amber with spiced rum for a deeper, maltier creation, there’s something for every palate. Remember to keep the basics in mind—know what not to mix with beer and master your cocktail mixing techniques. So, next time you visit Rio Bravo Brewing, take your beer enjoyment to the next level by experimenting with these innovative beer cocktails!

This season, if you’re looking for what to know about beer cocktails, visit Rio Bravo Brewing to discover your new favorite brew—and maybe even your favorite cocktail creation. Contact us for more information today!