GVIX SMR EDITION

CRAFT BEER FOR Y'ALL

In the summer when the weather is nice and there’s fire in the sky. Citrusy ales begin to emerge on store shelves and I start doing my happy dance down the aisle. Let me tell you there is no better pair than a craft beer with the perfect grilled dish. Litty x

If you want to know one thing about me – I love craft beer! My special interest stems from the quality and bold taste of small batched brew. I was introduced to craft beer in my early twenties.

I discovered a Wachusett Blueberry Ale while at a cookout. I was captivated by this light beer with a unique aroma and sweet notes. Since than I've been on the search for my new fave craft beer!

Recently, my Mother shared a fun fact with me about my Grandmother – my Queen was just as much as a beer enthusiast as I am. I knew we had a connection deeper than just our identical looks! Most people side-eye me when I order a crafty beer instead of the traditional cocktail. I always hid my love for beer because I was told black women don't like beer, let alone craft beer. Mystical creature they would say. When admiring a photo of Grandma Bessie I was inspired to write on our taboo interest.

My secret obsession with craft beers revolves around attending seasonal beer festivals, studying local brews, and of course plenty of tasting. I invite y'all into my secret layer of summer craft beers. When browsing through the brews my tastebuds do the choosing. Essential components:

IPA

Ale

Hazy

Bold

Crisp

Lager

Hoppy

Tasteful

Creativity

Citrusy hints

Amber hues

Eye catching label/packaging

SMR 2020 CRAFT BEER

Hummin’ Bird Helles Golden Munich Lager, Red Oak Brewery (grill pair is fish) – Light, mellow lager to start your typical summer day. I love to pair this brew with a cod or haddock. Being such an enjoyable beer to drink your fish is complimented well because this lager doesn't over power your dish. Great for when chefin’ it up or pool-side.

Wilma’s Wandering EyePA, Double Barley Brewing (grill pair is steak) – This amber beauty is awarding winning in my book! Flavorful with every sip and rich aroma. Steak and a strong brew like Wilma's, simply speaking is a match made in heaven. With a high alcohol content be careful, this one sneaks up on you. Must try this summer!

Seasonal Wanderlush, Highland Brewing Co. (grill pair is chicken) – I was a bit taken back upon the hazy finish. Huge hoppy notes making this beer worth every drip-drop. Clean and simple with only four ingredients – water, hops, yeast, and malt. Wanderlush paired with a salad topped with chicken is so a refreshing on a hot summer day!

Voodoo Ranger, Juicy Haze IPA (grill pair is burger) – When I cracked open my can the smell escaped and ran right to my senses. I was shook for a second then smiled too impressed. The Ranger can be found in many places due to it's popularity and undeniable great taste. I’m a lush, I had three! Who can blame me the juicy haze had me under it's spell. Two advil later I don’t regret it one bit.

Double D’s Watermelon Lager, Deep River Brewing Company (grill pair is seafood) – Newbie but worth the mention. Like most on this list this beauty is southern brewed. This craft beer is juicy and highlights the watermelon flavors from the start to finish. Fruity and feeling like summer this brew can go with any seafood dish of your liking. Love this enormous can and bright red packaging!

12 Beers of Summer, Saranac Brewing Co. (grill pair is whatever is hot and ready) – Variety pack of four different beers! All summer themed with citrus bursts and high hoppy notes this is a must have in your stash for those lazy summer weekends were you just want to keep back and relax at home aka staycation! Bright labels with a fun campy bear and zenned out sunset is everything I could ask for in one box filled with great tasting beer.

BEER TO TRY + HERE’S WHY

Lemon-Ginger Zombie – As labeled unique blend highlighted with strong flavors! Worth the search!

Hoptastic Juicy IPA, White Street Brewing Co. – Light and certainly juicy! Citrusy accents run up and down this can. Great campfire brew!

Sparking Lime Lager, New Belgium Brewing – Refreshing, similar to drinking a can of sparkling water with a kick! I had to remind myself this was a beer so take it easy.

Appalachia Session IPA, Wicked Weed Brewing – Smooth, so light, no aftertaste, beautiful packaging. I could go on and on! I paired this brew with a veggie kabob - bomb!

Brooklyn Summer Ale – Oldie but goodie. This summer ale took me by surprise when patio dining at a local New England eatery. I have hooked ever since. Light and easy to drink, this summer ale goes great with anything! Guac, truffle fries, even crab! Special thanks to Irma and Jess for putting me on!

TIPS + TRICKS

Smell bottle cap to get a whiff of your brew's true scent. You'll be pleasantly surprised!

Rinse and wipe your beer bottle necks + tops of cans before enjoying your adult summer beverage. Germs suck!

For the Mamas: Sparkling water is just as satisfying as a cold brew. With so many flavors to choose from you are bound to find a favorite. Mines are lime and blueberry. Add a few pieces of fruit to your glass or get crafty by mixing flavors for the ideal mama-ified beverage. Hydration is key for you + growing baby!

As a disclaimer please don’t mistake my love for a good beer to overshadow the harmful effects on the mind and body when in comes to drinking in excess. Please remain mindful and responsible when indulging in your favorite craft beers this summer. Stay sharp and alert when out and about. I always keep a water nearby for hydration and balance. As our journey’s vessel, you are responsible for upkeep and showing your body ALL the love x

Thank y'all for being here with me x

Cheers!