We’ve done it—we’ve reached the May long weekend, which kicks off summer. As the days grow longer and the sun beckons us outdoors, one activity screams summer like no other: the beloved barbecues.

Although it is a great excuse to impress your family and friends with your grilling skills, what if we told you that you could elevate the experience even further? Imagine complementing those perfectly grilled favourites with carefully selected brews, each sip enhancing the flavours on your plate and igniting your taste buds with delight. Welcome to the world of pairing liquor with grilled delicacies.

Don’t know where to begin? That’s okay; our in-house sommeliers are here to offer their expert opinions on all your favourites, from wine to whiskey and even craft beer. So fire up the grill, chill your drinks, and get ready to elevate your BBQ game.

The Art of Pairing Flavours

Pairing liquor with grilled favourites is not merely about combining two elements; it's an art form that requires a delicate balance of flavours and an understanding of culinary chemistry. Yet, we’ve been able to break it down for you.

• Grasp the concept of Flavour Profiles: It's not just about matching or mixing flavours. It's about understanding how some drinks can enhance or echo the flavours in your dish while others can cut through the richness of your barbecue.
• Considering All Factors: From different cuts of meat to the marinades used and even the grilling methods, all will have a distinct influence on the dish's flavour. For instance, the robust flavours of steak may pair well with whiskey, while the delicate seafood flavours could be complemented by crisp white wine. Consider these when deciding whether to compliment or contrast the meal's flavours.
• Finding Personal Preference: Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Unconventional pairings can lead to delightful surprises, and experimentation is key.

Ultimately, there are no strict rules for pairing liquor with grilled favourites. Trust your instincts and preferences to create pairings that resonate with your unique taste.

Wine Recommendations

Stave & Steel Bourbon Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon

Stave & Steel is a California Cabernet Sauvignon red wine aged in bourbon barrels, crafting a refined, full-bodied wine with bold fruit flavours. Dark cherry, blackberry, and plum enrich the palate, and vanilla, caramel, and spice notes lead to a long, smooth finish. Enjoy with steak; this wine is an ideal partner for barbecued meats, grilled Portobello mushrooms, or aged cheeses.

Carnivor Zinfandel

Dark purple-red colour; aromas of smoky oak and cassis, with notes of lilac, chocolate, and nuts; dry, medium-bodied, lush, rich, and rounded; flavours of smoke, cassis, chocolate, coffee and spice with notes of dried fruit, vanilla, and toasted oak. This wine was made for the BBQ! It is not named Carnivor for no reason! This wine will pair perfectly with steak, Ribs, BBQ Wings, and anything on the grill.

Make sure to pick it up for sale in May!

Spirit Recommendations

Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Nothing screams barbecue better than Kentucky Bourbon! The perfectly balanced choice from Woodford Reserve comprises more than 200 detectable flavour notes, from bold grain and wood to sweet aromatics, spice, and fruit with floral notes. Enjoy it neat or in classic cocktails like a Mint Julep or Old-Fashioned. It will perfectly complement any steak or red meat with a crust.

Make sure to pick it up for sale in May!

Jameson Lemonade

Of course, if you are so focused on the barbecue that you don’t have time to step away and mix up a cocktail, try a Jameson Lemonade. One part Jameson to three parts all-natural lemonade, this refreshing, balanced cocktail is the perfect addition to your summer barbecue. Its convenience makes for straightforward enjoyment when you’re at the grill, and the tartness of the lemonade is sure to cut through the fattiness of the meat.

Beer Recommendations

Driftwood Fat Tug IPA

Brewed with the hop enthusiast in mind, Fat Tug is a Northwest-style India Pale Ale with an intense hop profile featuring notes of grapefruit, mango, melon, and passionfruit. The malt contrasts nicely with any burger or salmon you’re grilling for dinner!

Make sure to pick up a 12-pack on sale in May!

Sleeman Honey Brown Lager

This lager is an easy-drinking beer that boasts a rich copper colour with a creamy white head. Its full-bodied flavour profile has a slightly sweet finish with clover honey notes and toasted caramel aromas that pair well with lighter steaks, chicken wings, and sausages.

Make sure to pick up a 12-pack on sale in May!

As we kick off summer, let's elevate our barbecue experiences with expertly curated liquor pairings. From bourbon barrel-aged Cabernet Sauvignon to hoppy IPAs and smooth whiskeys, there's a libation to complement every grilled delight.

Join us in exploring the art of flavor pairing this summer. Share your favourite barbecue pairings with us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok) and let's inspire each other's culinary adventures. Cheers to raising the bar on barbecue!