Long confined to its role as a refreshing beverage, beer is now establishing itself as a key ingredient in mixology. While classic cocktails have conquered the world, beer-based cocktails remain a fascinating frontier of exploration, where creativity meets brewing heritage.
With its infinite aromatic palette, beer pushes the boundaries of imagination. Hoppy, fruity, tangy, roasted, smoky, or spicy, its effervescence and freshness make it a natural ally for cocktails, bringing balance and subtlety to avant-garde creations.
However, crafting a beer cocktail is no improvisation. Every recipe relies on the delicate alchemy of four pillars: sweetness, acidity, bitterness, and alcohol. Beer must find its place within this balance, without overpowering or fading away. Too strong, and it overwhelms the blend; too light, and it gets lost. It’s all about harmony.
Far from being a fleeting trend, beer mixology is rooted in a tradition of innovation. Since the 19th century, bartenders have been exploring new horizons and constantly pushing boundaries. Today, beer joins this evolution, adding a new dimension to modern cocktails.
All styles of beer can be integrated into cocktails, offering an unsuspected diversity of pairings. Whether light or complex, dry or indulgent, they interact with ingredients and textures to create surprising experiences. Woody garnishes, spicy touches, creamy or sparkling textures—anything is possible.
This approach isn't limited to specialty bars. It’s an invitation to experiment, to rediscover beer from a richer, more sophisticated perspective. Whether you're a curious enthusiast or a professional, beer cocktails offer a sparkling revolution—a playground where balance, creativity, and alchemy are essential.
The marriage of beer and mixology opens up infinite possibilities. It’s all about nuance and dosage, transforming a simple beer into a refined creation. From historical cocktails to reinvented classics, beer cocktail recipes reflect an era where boldness and discovery are redefining trends.
Dare to experience it. Unleash your imagination and explore beer mixology at its finest.
Cyril Hubert, biérologue
INGREDIENTS
• 4 cl XO Dark Rum (Duppy Share)
• 3 cl Campari
• few pieces of pineapple or 6 cl pineapple juice
• 1 cl lemon juice
• 2 cl blood orange syrup (Monin)
• Beer: Citra Galactus (Brasserie Grand Paris).
METHOD: shaker technique
1. Muddle the pineapple pieces in the shaker,
then add all ingredients except the beer.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake for 15 seconds.
3. Serve over ice with double straining.
4. Top up with beer and stir.
Garnish: 1 pineapple leaf.
INGRÉDIENTS
• 4 cl white rum (Plein Soleil, Baie des Trésors)
• 1 red kiwi or 4 cl kiwi juice
• 1 cl kiwi syrup (Monin)
• 1 egg white
• Beer: Brette Series Ananas (Brasserie Effet Papillon).
METHOD: shaker technique
1. Muddle the red kiwi in the shaker,
then add all ingredients except the beer.
2. Fill with ice and shake.
3. Serve with double straining.
4. Top up with beer and stir.
Garnish: 1 slice of kiwi.
At the end of July, SommelierS International had the pleasure of allowing professional sommeliers to taste some fifteen sakes, shochu and umeshu that had won awards at the Kura Master competition...
Cognacs from Coutanseaux Aîné draw their unique identity from the terroir...
