As the sun begins to shine brighter and the days stretch longer, there's an unmistakable sense of excitement that accompanies the arrival of summer. Summer 2024 is just around the corner, promising a season brimming with garden parties, BBQs, beach outings, and lazy afternoons spent lounging in the backyard. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying a quiet moment of relaxation, the right craft beer can elevate these experiences to new heights.

At Beer Merchants, we understand the magic of a well-crafted beer. Our curated selection for summer 2024 brings together some of the finest brews available, each chosen for its unique flavour profile and ability to complement summer's vibrant activities. From crisp lagers to juicy IPAs, our collection caters to every taste, ensuring that your summer moments are nothing short of extraordinary. Join us as we delve into the best craft beers for the season, explore their perfect food pairings, and highlight the must-attend beer events this summer!

Summer 2024 - Get Ready For The Garden Parties

As the warm days of summer 2024 approaches, it's time to prepare for a season filled with outdoor gatherings, garden parties, and BBQs. With the sun shining and the evenings stretching longer, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than by spending time with friends and family in the great outdoors. A well-chosen selection of craft beers can elevate any event, making your gatherings not just enjoyable but memorable. Whether you’re hosting an intimate garden party or a large BBQ beer bash, the right craft beers will enhance the atmosphere and delight your guests.

Within today's blog, we’ve curated a list of exceptional craft beers perfect for summer, ensuring you and your guests have the ultimate beer experience. Our selection has something for everyone, promising to make your summer celebrations unforgettable!

Craft Beers Perfect For This Summer And The Foods To Pair Them With!

Selecting the right beer can transform your summer festivities. Here are some top craft beers available at Beer Merchants that are perfect for sipping in the sun.

Pairing food with beer can enhance both the beer and the dish, creating a harmonious and enjoyable dining experience. Here are some top dishes to complement the craft beers mentioned above, ensuring your garden parties and BBQs are a hit:

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale

This classic American Pale Ale is celebrated for its bold hop aroma, featuring notes of citrus and pine. The malt backbone provides a balanced and refreshing finish, making it one of the ideal summer drinks. The vibrant flavours and moderate bitterness make it a favourite among craft beer enthusiasts, perfect for any occasion.

For a classic summer pairing, try serving Sierra Nevada Pale Ale alongside a juicy burger fresh off the grill. The beer's hoppy bitterness cuts through the richness of the meat, while its maltiness complements the charred flavours.

For a more spicy kick, pair Sierra Nevada Pale Ale with your favourite Mexican dish. The beer's hoppy bitterness helps to cool the heat of spicy foods, while its maltiness provides a satisfying contrast to the bold flavours of dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or salsa verde chicken.

Kona Longboard Lager

With its crisp taste and smooth finish, Kona Longboard Lager is the ideal summer beer to sip on while soaking up some rays. Brewed with the finest ingredients and a touch of aloha spirit, this lager is a true testament to the art of craft beer. Its light and easy-drinking nature make it a go-to choice for any occasion.

The light and crispy nature of Kona Longboard Lager makes it the perfect match for fish tacos. The beer's subtle hop bitterness complements the fried fish, while its clean finish helps to cleanse the palate between bites.

For a heartier option, consider pairing Kona Longboard Lager with some sticky, finger-licking BBQ ribs. The beer's delicate malt character helps to balance out the richness of the meat, making for a truly delicious pairing.

Andechs Hefe Weisse Hell

Crafted by the monks of the Andechs monastery in Bavaria, Germany, Andechs Hefe Weisse Hell is a classic wheat beer that is known for its superior quality and unparalleled taste. Its signature golden colour and fluffy white head are a feast for the eyes, while its aroma of bananas, cloves, and citrus promises a flavour explosion with every sip.

When it comes to pairing food with Andechs Hefe Weisse Hell, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. One classic pairing is with grilled sausages, such as bratwurst or weisswurst. The smoky, savoury flavours of the sausage complement the wheaty notes of the beer perfectly.

For a more indulgent pairing, consider pairing with a creamy cheese, such as brie or camembert. The rich, creamy cheese will complement the beer's smooth mouthfeel and enhance its flavours.

Garage Beer Co Soup IPA

Crafted with care and precision, Soup IPA is a delicious combination of hops and malts. With its citrusy notes and smooth finish, this beer is a true delight for the taste buds and the perfect brew to quench your thirst and cool you down.

The bright and zesty flavours of shrimp tacos are a match made in heaven with the tropical fruit notes of Soup IPA. The charred shrimp, creamy avocado, and tangy salsa are the perfect combination of flavours to enhance the beer's fruity profile.

Nothing says summer like firing up the grill, and BBQ chicken skewers are the perfect accompaniment to a cold beer. The smoky, charred flavours of the chicken pair beautifully with the hoppy notes of the IPA, creating a mouth-watering combination for summer.

Beavertown Gamma Ray American Pale Ale

Bursting with tropical fruit flavours and a smooth, hoppy finish, Beavertown Gamma Ray is vibrant and full of character. The fruity hops provide a juicy, refreshing quality that’s perfect for summer, while the hoppy finish adds a layer of complexity.

The crispiness of beer-battered fish and chips perfectly complements the light and refreshing qualities of the Beavertown Gamma Ray American Pale Ale. Don't forget the side of tangy tartar sauce for an extra layer of flavour.

The smoky and savoury flavours of BBQ pulled pork sliders are also a perfect match for the maltiness of the American Pale Ale.

By choosing the right craft beers and pairing them with complementary dishes, you can create an unforgettable summer experience for your guests. Whether you're hosting a large BBQ or an intimate garden party, these combinations will ensure that your summer celebrations are filled with great food, exceptional beer, and lasting memories.

Craft Beer Events Coming Up This Summer

Summer is also the season for beer festivals and events. Below are just 3 to look forward to in 2024:

London Craft Beer Festival (9th-10th August):

This annual celebration of all things craft beer brings together brewers, enthusiasts, and foodies alike for a weekend of cold brews, tasty bites, and endless entertainment.

What sets the London Craft Beer Festival apart from other beer festivals is its focus on quality and creativity. Gone are the days of mass-produced, watered-down brews - at this event, attendees can expect to sample an array of unique and innovative craft beers from some of the most talented brewers in the industry. From pale ales to stouts to sours, there is truly something for every palate at this festival.

Craft Beer South (14th September):

Are you a craft beer aficionado looking for the ultimate summer event to satisfy your hoppy cravings? Look no further than Craft Beer South 2024, at Southampton. This festival is a must-attend for anyone who appreciates the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into brewing the perfect pint.

One of the highlights of Craft Beer South 2024 is the opportunity to meet the brewers behind your favourite beers. You can chat with them, learn about their brewing process, and gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and passion that goes into creating craft beer.

Oktoberfest (21st September - 6th October):

While not strictly a summer event, Oktoberfest in Munich is the pinnacle of beer festivals. Featuring traditional German beers, food, and music, it’s an experience every beer lover should have at least once.

With a wide selection of craft beers from local and international breweries, attendees will have the opportunity to sample some of the finest brews the world has to offer. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, there is something for every beer connoisseur to enjoy.

Summer 2024 will hopefully be a season filled with sunshine and outdoor fun, but most definitely exceptional craft beers! Beer Merchants is dedicated to providing you with the best beer selection to make your summer gatherings unforgettable. From classic Pale Ales and refreshing Witbiers to bold IPAs and crisp lagers, our curated collection has something for every occasion. Pair these beers with delicious BBQ dishes and garden party snacks to create the ultimate summer experience.

Explore our website to find the perfect beers for your summer festivities and discover new flavours to enhance your celebrations. Here’s to a summer of great beer, good food, and unforgettable memories. Cheers!