When the grill’s fired up, and the smoky aroma of BBQ fills the air, nothing pairs better than a refreshing drink in hand. If you’ve ever wondered what to sip on while enjoying your BBQ in Athens, Alabama, look no further. Whether it’s a casual backyard cookout or you’re dining at a local barbecue restaurant, finding the perfect drink to complement those rich, smoky flavors can enhance your entire meal. Here are the best beverages to pair with your favorite BBQ near me.
Crisp Local Pale Ales That Cut Through the Smoke
When you’re digging into a plate of smoky BBQ, a crisp pale ale can be the perfect match. Pale ales, especially those brewed locally in Athens, Alabama, offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, charred flavors of grilled meats. Their slight bitterness cuts through the heaviness, making every bite of brisket or ribs feel lighter.
Pale ales typically have just the right balance of hops and malt, which means they won’t overpower the BBQ’s smoky sweetness. Instead, they enhance the experience, letting the smoky flavors shine while keeping your palate refreshed. If you’re looking for a simple, crisp, and delicious pairing for your barbecue near me, a pale ale is always a great choice.
Bold Red Wines That Hold Their Own with BBQ Flavors
Wine and BBQ might not be the most obvious combination, but don’t underestimate the power of a bold red wine when you’re enjoying your next BBQ feast. Red wines can stand up to the robust flavors of smoked meats. Their full-bodied, spicy, and sometimes fruity notes complement the richness of barbecued pork or beef without getting lost in the mix.
These wines pair especially well with saucier BBQ dishes. The deep tannins in a bold red wine provide a delightful counterbalance to the tangy barbecue sauces often used in Athens, Alabama’s local BBQ restaurants. If you’re craving something a bit different from your usual drink, grab a glass of red next time you’re searching for BBQ near me.
Sweet Tea with a Twist of Lemon for a Southern Flair
Nothing says Southern BBQ quite like a tall glass of sweet tea. It’s a staple at any barbecue restaurant in Athens, Alabama, and for good reason. Sweet tea brings a refreshing sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory, smoky flavors of BBQ. Add a twist of lemon for a bit of tartness, and you’ve got a drink that cuts through the richness of pulled pork or smoked chicken with ease.
The best part about sweet tea is its versatility. It can be sipped on its own or jazzed up with flavors like mint or peach. However you prefer it, sweet tea remains a classic drink that makes every BBQ bite even better.
Refreshing Citrus-Infused Cocktails to Balance the Heat
For those who like a bit of spice in their BBQ, a citrus-infused cocktail is the way to go. Whether it’s a margarita, a mojito, or a simple gin and tonic with a splash of lime, these cocktails offer a zesty, refreshing balance to the heat of spiced-up BBQ dishes. They cleanse the palate, cooling things down with every sip.
The bright citrus flavors bring out the smoky undertones of grilled meats without overwhelming your taste buds. It’s the kind of drink that’s perfect for a hot day, keeping things light and refreshing while you enjoy your BBQ near me. Plus, the bubbly effervescence in many of these cocktails helps to keep the meal fun and lively.
Bourbon on the Rocks for a Rich, Smoky Pairing
Bourbon and BBQ? Absolutely. For those who appreciate a drink with a bit more punch, bourbon on the rocks is an excellent choice. The caramel and vanilla notes found in bourbon play wonderfully with the smoky, charred flavors of BBQ meats. It’s a drink that’s rich, full-bodied, and bold enough to complement even the most robust BBQ dishes.
Bourbon, particularly when sipped neat or on the rocks, has a smoky quality all its own, which pairs harmoniously with barbecued ribs or brisket. It’s a classic Southern drink that fits right in at any barbecue restaurant in Athens, Alabama. If you’re looking for a drink that echoes the smoky richness of your BBQ, bourbon should be your go-to.
Iced Cold Craft Lagers That Keep Things Light and Breezy
Sometimes, the simplest option is the best. A cold craft lager is a refreshing choice that keeps things easy and breezy while you enjoy your BBQ. Lagers are light and crisp, making them ideal for pairing with any type of BBQ, whether it’s pork, chicken, or beef. Their mild flavor complements BBQ without overpowering it, letting the smoky, savory flavors of the meat take center stage.
Craft lagers often have a subtle sweetness that plays nicely with the tang of barbecue sauces. If you’re dining out at a barbecue restaurant or hosting your own cookout, an ice-cold lager is a perfect choice for staying refreshed and satisfied.