My last 2 blogs were dedicated to our new martinis and cocktails that were recently launched in IL and MN. For this entry I am focusing on our three delicious new beers; 1 on draught and 2 available by the bottle.

Great Lakes Brewing Co., from Cleveland, Ohio, has been good to Wildfire over the past 2 years, partnering with us to do multiple beer dinners. To show our appreciation, we are pleased to announce that we are pouring the Great Lakes Burning River Pale Ale on draught. This beer is assertively hopped with citrusy and piney Cascade hops and pairs well with bbq dishes and our Blue Cheese Crusted Filet Mignon - it’s fast becoming a customer favorite!    

Another brewery that Wildfire has partnered with for several successful beer dinners is Bell’s Brewery Inc. The Bell’s Porter, available by the bottle, emphasizes the darker, roasted aspects of malt. Hints of dark chocolate and freshly roasted coffee provide the focus, while hops remain in the background. This beer goes perfectly with any of Wildfire’s signature steaks, lamb chops or even our triple layer chocolate cake - practically made for each other!

My personal favorite new beer, available by the bottle, is the Lagunitas IPA from Petaluma, CA. This really says a lot since I am not a fan of IPA style beers- they're way too hoppy for my liking! The Lagunitas IPA or India Pale Ale is the brewing company’s flagship beer and is moderately hoppy and extremely well balanced. It's known as “An IPA built to make you want another sip”, which makes perfect sense to me because I find other IPA’s very difficult to keep drinking. This beer is definitely the exception and I encourage you to try this tasty beer with the Wildfire Basil Hayden’s Bourbon Tips or the ever popular Horseradish Crusted Filet Mignon - you will want to order a 2^nd a bottle!

Don’t you worry wine lovers! My next few blog entries will feature some of the Wildfire staff’s and my personal picks for best new wines on the 2011-2012 Wildfire wine list!

Cheers to you, Brad Wermager