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I'm bold enough to say Michigan beer has the best beer produced in the country. We are floating in the top 3 rated craft beer states, along side California and Colorado! We as craft beer lovers take a lot of pride in not only our Grand Rapids brews,
but the rest of the state as well.
That said,
Great Divide Brewing Co. is not from Michigan, but from from Denver, Colorado. I have to admit, I'm loving their beer right now. Our fellow brewing brothers from the west are doing some amazing things. Everything I've come across is balanced, yet distinct and fresh with quality flavors. They are also a brewery that focuses not just on the beer, but what the beer can do for a meal. Each bottle of brew has a side note with recommendations for food pairings of all sorts. Veggie options, meat dishes and what cheese pairs best. It's literally a shelf talker right on the label and the suggestions will get even the foodiest of the foodies excited to try wonderful pairings. I still say Michigan beer is where it's at, but here are 5 beers from that place with mountains and great fishing that have a respected place in our cooler. Give them a try and you'll understand why. |
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In Da Coola'
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Hoss Rye Lager
An homage to the Marzen style lager of Germany, this fiercely sunset orange colored brew is layered with dark fruits and hints of cherry underneath a malt driven body. The addition of rye to the beer sustains a spicy and earthy balance unlike any other beer. Food pairings suggested by Great Divide include veal bratwurst, barbeque chicken, carnitas (slow cooked pork tacos), Camembert cheese and German chocolate cake.
Fresh Hop Pale Ale
Brewed with fresh whole cone hops flown overnight just after harvest from the Pacific Northwest, this brew is very grassy with floral hints and a citrus back bone. Not an over-the-top hop ale, this is balanced and incredibly fresh. Great Divide suggests Epoisses, grilled trout and garlic/ginger sweet potatoes...we couldn't agree more.
Belgica Belgian IPA
This is a Belgian styled IPA with a lot of character and style. If you are a fan of the La Chouffe Houblon Doublon you will most likely love this beer. Belgica is Roman for low counties, representing the marriage of American and Belgian styles. Spicy with citrus notes and wild yeast flavors create a bold and harmonious balance. Pairings include Thai curry mussels, crab cakes, roasted turkey and/or pheasant and Taleggio cheese.
Yeti Imperial Stout
A veritable beast in a bottle. Roasted malt, caramel and toffee define the nose and palate but the finish is bitter and loaded with hops. A very dry stout with full body huge mouth feel. This is an ale to treat with respect. Suggested food ideas from Great Divide are grilled steaks, strong/salty blue cheese and chocolate.
Espresso Oak Aged Yeti Imperial Stout
See above yet enjoys a generous coffee flavor and hints of vanilla and cedar from the oak chips it's aged on. The bitter finish is muted, but the amount of hops involved are the same. This may be the first beer destined to be served at breakfast. Careful though, it's a slippery slope. Suggested pairings include breakfast burritos, eggs Benedict, hash browns, cheesecake and creme brulee. |
