While wine has long been regarded as the go-to accompaniment for festive feasts, craft beer also features diverse flavors, aromas, and complexities that can harmonize beautifully with a wide array of holiday dishes. From nutty ales to crisp lagers, our local breweries in Saugatuck/Douglas/Fennville offer amazing options that will not only elevate your dining experience but also add some unexpected fizz to your festivities.

Why not add a hoppy twist to your traditional holiday dinners this holiday season and let your taste buds revel in the joy of local craft beers? We’ve curated a selection of craft brews from our region, each chosen for its unique characteristics that will complement the flavors of classic holiday fare. Here's to breaking traditions and savoring the season with a fresh twist on festive pairings!

Bonfire Brown Ale

Saugatuck Brewing Company's Bonfire Brown, a distinguished craft beer that proudly clinched the 2014 World Beer Cup Gold Medal, is a classic American Brown Ale crafted with a blend of 10 different malts.

The result? A rich, malty body that gives way to a delightfully roasty, toasty finish. With every sip, Bonfire Brown promises a journey through layers of flavor that will leave your taste buds applauding.

Ideal for holiday feasts, this brew pairs seamlessly with dishes like a holiday roast or a succulent deep-fried turkey, accompanied by a delectable brown gravy. You can easily get your hands on this award-winning beer in stores as a convenient 6-pack or swing by the brewpub to enjoy it on draft or for a 6-pack to go. Howlers and growlers are also available for those eager to savor this masterpiece at home. To discover a retail partner near you, visit https://www.saugatuckbrewing.com/find-our-beer/.

Kultivator Doppelbock

The Kultivator Doppelbock from Guardian Brewing Company is a malt-focused beer steeped in tradition and brewed with meticulous care. Brewed and lagered using traditional methods and aged to perfection, this beer is a nod to German craftsmanship, embodying a blend of traditional German hops, malt, yeast, and water profiles. Set aside in the summer and released just in time for winter, this dark lager, with its enticing notes of dried fruit, caramel, and toast, boasts an 8.0% ABV, making it a robust companion for your winter festivities.

This beer's complex flavor profile complements rich dishes with umami and earthy flavors, making it an ideal match for your holiday table. Best paired with the heartier fare of the season, Kultivator harmonizes with the flavors of darker meats, turkey legs and thighs, pork, beef, beets, and roasted vegetables. Enjoy it on draft at Guardian Brewing Company, or grab 12 oz. cans from select retailers. For a complete list of retail partners, visit https://www.guardianbrewingco.com/find-our-beer and bring home a taste of traditional German brewing.

Imperial Golden Ale

Indulge in the decadent flavor of Waypost Brewing Co.'s most recent seasonal release, the Imperial Golden Ale. A fresh and festive twist on the British Golden Ale, this beer promises to add a touch of celebration to your winter gatherings. A vibrant dessert beer, the Imperial Golden Ale boasts an infusion of delicate florals and spiced citrus botanical notes against a rich malt backdrop. Lightly toasted malts, conditioned on cardamom and rose and sweetened with milk sugar, create a flavor profile that's nothing short of enchanting. This unique, full-bodied brew promises to be the perfect antidote to winter's chill.

Pair the Imperial Golden Ale with the richest of desserts, such as sticky toffee pudding à la mode. Or venture into unexpected holiday fare territory by pairing it with a spicy curry. The sweet, rich texture of the beer will calm the peppery heat, while the vibrant botanical notes will make those earthy spices sing.

To get your hands on this seasonal delight, head to Waypost Brewing Co.'s farm and savor it in the tasting room or grab some from their retail shop. If you're a bit farther afield, select retail partners may also carry this seasonal gem. Find them here at https://www.waypostbeer.com/stockists.

Triple Crown Brown

Triple Crown Brown has been a stand-out favorite since The Mitten Brewing Company opened its doors 11 years ago. It holds the distinction of being a gold medal winner from the World Beer Cup, earning the prestigious title of the best English Dark Mild in the world. This exceptional brew delivers a rich malty backbone that gives way to a smooth nuttiness and a robust, roasty finish. Despite its bold flavor profile, Triple Crown Brown maintains a surprisingly light body, making it an excellent choice for introducing friends and family to the world of craft beer, especially those who may not have found craft beer enjoyable in the past.

Triple Crown Brown is a versatile companion for holiday feasts, pairing exquisitely with slow-roasted and BBQ meats, sausages, and an array of cheeses. Its depth also makes it an ideal base for chili or a remarkable substitute for red wine in cooking. Available year-round, this celebrated beer can be found across the state of Michigan, making it a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations.

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