Beer Picks for the Big Game

This Sunday, February 5th, the New York Giants take on the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI. Millions will gather to watch the game and enjoy great food. Sure, you’ll see plenty of ads from Budweiser peddling their fizzy yellow beer, but take a moment to reach for something that might actually have taste or even better, compliment the food you’re consuming during the Big Game.

I’ve decided to pick two breweries that have pretty good national distribution. Keep in mind that beer distribution varies greatly and depending on what state you live in, your major market will probably have other offerings from New York and Massachusetts.

Something from the Boston Beer Co. is the obvious choice to drink if you’re backing the Patriots. The harder choice is what though, since the brewery produces about 36 different rotating offerings, in addition to some specialty and limited release beers. Granted not all of these are going to be available since many of them are seasonal releases.

On Super Bowl Sunday I’m going with Samuel Adams Wee Heavy. This Scotch Ale is a big, bold, peat smoked malty beer. It’s not for the feint of heart but perfect for cold weather and the big game in February. Weighing in at 10% abv it definitely has a kick to it, so be careful.

If you’re looking for something a little lighter check out Sam Adams Boston Lager or even their latest Brewmaster’s Collection, which is a 12 pack sampler of various offerings. I believe the current mix pack contains three new beers: Alpine Spring, Might Oak Ale, and White River IPA. The other three are the Irish Red, Black Lager, and Boston Lager.

If you’re a Giants fan you might want to toast the G-men with something from Brewery Ommegang located in Cooperstown, NY. This brewery specializes in Belgian-style ales. Their flagship beer, Ommegang, is an abbey ale. One of my favorites, Hennepin, is a saison or farmhouse style ale. Light and golden with a fruit and spicy yeast character, Hennepin is a beer meant to be consumed with food. Ommegang also makes a Scottish Ale, Cup o Kindness. It might be interesting to compare that to Sam Adams Wee Heavy, although you may find that a Scottish Ale is not quite at big and bold as the Scotch Ale style.

Speaking of bold, I’m going to throw out my prediction and say that the Patriots are going to triumph over the Giants in Super Bowl XLVI. It’s a rematch of the Super Bowl from 5 years ago and I can’t see the Patriots losing again. I do think the game’s going to be close, but Tom Brady and company will find a way to win.

Besides, I still can’t forgive the Giants for knocking off my Green Bay Packers.