Red wine is certainly not your only option when it comes to winter tipples — beer makes new and interesting cold-weather accompaniments, with the bonus of being well matched to heartier meals. If you are planning to branch out, you may as well pick a winner. The New World Beer & Cider Award winners have just been announced and will be available at New World supermarkets for four weeks from today. Here are Bite's favourite winning beer choices to enjoy alongside winter fodder. All recipes at bite.co.nz.
1. Kainui Brewing Co. Rank and File American Porter
Chocolate and black malt, accented with tropical hops, are balanced with a full body and smooth mouth feel in this dark, luscious porter. It's a substantial beer and mingles especially well with smoky foods — such as smoked or cured meats. It also marries well with winter puds, such as a self-saucing chocolate and black doris plum pudding.
2. Fortune Favours The Oregonian All American Amber
Described by the judges as a versatile, easydrinking yet fulfilling beer, this tribute to the pioneering craft brewers in the Pacific North West is universally food-friendly. You could try it with a winter cheeseboard, accompanied by walnuts and poached figs. Or sip alongside a hearty venison stew.
3. Parrotdog Forget-menot West Coast IPA
The judges loved this IPA for its big bold flavours, which are perfectly in sync: powerful yet delicate. This hoppy, beautifully bitter IPA needs equally big flavours in order to meet its match. Rich food, such as lamb shoulder, pulled pork and milder Indian curries, marry perfectly. This IPA and Warren Elwin's pot-roast beef brisket make a winning combo — especially as you can use some of the beer in the recipe (if you can bear to part with any of it).
4. Altitude Brewing — Persistent High Hefe
Showcasing the wonders of fermentation, this cloudy wheat beer is a riot of fruity flavours, say the judges. The finished beer is unfined and unfiltered, so shake it gently for your cloudy drinking pleasure. Wheat beer pairs well with winter comfort foods that other beers might not fancy, such as a risotto and creamy pasta. Or try it with a seafood chowder.
