As the new year dawns, it’s often marked by the clinking of glasses and the toasts of good fortune. For Lopa, Liz, Jason and I, the start of 2024 was an occasion graced by an array of non-alcoholic brews, each one bringing its unique flair to a night filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the indulgence of a carefully curated charcuterie board.
The evening was not just a celebration of the new year but also an appreciation of how non-alcoholic beers can enhance the joy of gathering without the after-effects that often accompany traditional alcoholic drinks. Liz’s quip, “well, I don’t mind waking up feeling good tomorrow!” captured the essence of the night — revelry without regret.
Here’s a toast to the non-alcoholic companions that made the evening memorable, with a short review of each:
Best Day Brewing Hazy IPA
The Best Day Brewing Hazy IPA, stood out with its robust flavors. This brew captured the essence of a classic IPA with its hop-forward profile, clouded appearance, and a citrusy punch that was both refreshing and satisfying.
Paulaner Weizen-Radler
Liz found her summer 2024 poolside mate in the Paulaner Weizen-Radler. This German gem, with its blend of wheat beer and sparkling lemonade, offered a zesty and refreshing twist. Its light body and sunny disposition made it a standout for relaxed sipping.
Best Day Brewing West Coast IPA
Jason’s pick for the best NA beer he’s ever had, The Untitled Art West Coast IPA was a nod to tradition with a contemporary twist. Its bold, hoppy notes and a clear golden pour were reminiscent of the beloved IPA style. A firm bitterness was elegantly balanced with a dry finish, making it a hit among the aficionados in the room.
Untitled Art Chocolate Dark Brew
The Chocolate Dark Brew from Untitled Art was a dessert in itself. It boasted a rich, velvety chocolate flavor that was indulgent without being overly sweet. This NA beer was a luxurious pairing with the darker chocolates on the board, creating a decadent dance of cocoa on the palate. If we had vanilla ice cream, we would have finished the evening off with a Dark Brew float!
Untitled Art Citra Haze
Citra Haze brought a burst of tropical aromatics to the party, with Citra hops at the forefront. Its hazy appearance and juicy profile were a tropical retreat, offering a burst of mango and passionfruit that played well with the creamy textures of the board’s soft cheeses.
Untitled Art Italian Style Pils
The Italian Style Pils from Untitled Art was crisp and clean, with a subtle hop bitterness that cut through the richness of the charcuterie with grace. Its light body and floral hints were a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of sharp cheddar and prosciutto.
Best Day Brewing Kolsch
Best Day Brewing’s Kolsch-Style beer was a testament to simplicity done right. It offered a delicate balance of malt sweetness and a light hop touch, reminiscent of the classic German style, and was the perfect accompaniment to the tangy bite of pickled accompaniments.
Lagunitas Hoppy Refresher Sparkling Hop Water
While not a beer, the Lagunitas Hoppy Refresher was a unique experience. This sparkling hop water delivered all the hoppy goodness without the malt base, offering a zesty, refreshing twist that cleansed the palate and invigorated the senses. It was easily a favorite!
As the evening waned, it became clear that the company and choices of beverage were equally important ingredients in the recipe for an unforgettable celebration. The non-alcoholic options presented by these breweries showcased a dedication to craft and flavor that transcended the need for alcohol. It was a night that welcomed 2024 with open arms and raised glasses filled with the promise of guilt-free enjoyment and the golden hues of finely brewed NA beers. Here’s to a year of health, happiness, and the fine art of brewing—cheers to that!
