BBQ Cocktails & Drink Pairings
A legendary barbecue feast is never just about the food; it is about the experience. BBQ Cocktails & Drink Pairings are the final piece of the puzzle. The right beverage does more than just wash down the meal; it enhances it. Whether you are cracking a cold beer next to the pit or mixing sophisticated smoked cocktails for a dinner party, this collection covers it all.
From refreshing summer drinks that cool you down while you cook to robust drink pairings designed to cut through the richness of slow-smoked meats, these recipes ensure your glass is as impressive as your plate.
Diva’s 3 Rules for Pitmaster Pours
Contrast is King
BBQ is heavy. Grilled meats like smoked brisket or pulled pork are rich in fat and collagen. You need a drink with high acidity, carbonation, or tannins to cleanse the palate. A crisp pale ale or a citrus-forward cocktail resets your taste buds for the next bite.
Smoke Signals
You can bring the fire to the glass, but be careful. Smoked cocktails are fantastic, but they should complement, not compete. I love using grilled garnish drinks, like a charred lemon wheel or a smoked rosemary sprig, to add a subtle hint of the pit without overpowering the drink.
Match the Sauce
Look at your BBQ sauces. If you are using a sweet, sticky Kansas City sauce, a dry drink works best to balance the sugar. If you are eating a spicy, vinegar-based pork, a sweeter drink (like sweet tea or a bourbon smash) helps tame the heat.
Flavor Profiling
RECIPES
starting point for every great meal
Perfect Pairings
Obviously, these drinks need food. Pour a bold red wine with a steak from Beef or crack a lager with some spicy wings from Chicken. If you are serving a crowd, a large batch punch bowl goes perfectly with the finger foods in Appetizers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cocktails go best with BBQ ribs?
How to smoke an Old Fashioned?
What is the best craft beer for brisket?
Can I serve wine with BBQ?
Do you have non-alcoholic BBQ drink ideas?
Raise a Glass to Great BBQ!
The fire is hot, the meat is resting, and the work is done. Now it is time to enjoy the reward. Grab a shaker or a bottle opener and try one of these pairings tonight. Cheers to good food and good friends!
Tag me in your photos, I want to see what’s in your cup!