The Best BrewDog Beers for a BBQ: From Wingman AF to GRAPE ESCAPE

Summer grilling season is here, and the right beer can turn a good barbecue into a great one. Whether you're flipping burgers, smoking ribs, or grilling veggies, BrewDog has a lineup of beers that complement smoky, charred, and saucy flavours. In this guide, we'll walk you through the best BrewDog BBQ beers, including crowd-pleasing classics and a standout non-alcoholic option that pairs perfectly with spicy wings.

From the hoppy kick of a West Coast IPA to the fruity tang of a sour, we've matched each beer to a typical BBQ dish. We'll also share tips on how to serve them and why non-alcoholic beers like wingman-af-154247">Wingman AF deserve a spot in your cooler. Let's dive into the ultimate craft beer for barbecue pairings.

Why Beer and BBQ Are a Match Made in Heaven

Barbecue food is all about bold, smoky, and often spicy flavours. The char from the grill, the sweetness of barbecue sauce, and the richness of fatty meats call for a beer that can cut through and refresh. A crisp lager or a hoppy IPA can cleanse your palate between bites, while a fruity sour can contrast the smokiness. BrewDog's diverse range means there's a beer for every dish and every guest.

When pairing beer with BBQ, consider the intensity of the food. Lighter dishes like grilled chicken or fish pair well with delicate beers, while robust meats like brisket or pulled pork need a beer with enough body and bitterness to stand up. Don't forget the sides – coleslaw, cornbread, and baked beans also influence your choice.

• Crisp lagers and pilsners refresh the palate after fatty bites.
• IPAs with high IBU cut through sweet and spicy sauces.
• Sour beers and fruit-infused ales provide a tangy contrast to smoky flavours.

Top BrewDog BBQ Beers for Every Dish

For grilled burgers and steaks, reach for a bold IPA like Punk IPA. Its citrusy hop profile and moderate bitterness complement the charred meat without overwhelming it. If you prefer something maltier, Lost Lager (including the Personalised Lost Lager option) offers a clean, crisp finish that works with everything from sausages to veggie skewers.

Spicy wings call for a beer with a bit of sweetness or a lower alcohol content. Wingman AF, BrewDog's non-alcoholic IPA, is a fantastic choice. Its hoppy aroma and light body won't compete with the heat, and you can enjoy it all afternoon without the buzz. For a fruity twist, GRAPE ESCAPE – a grapefruit-infused sour – brings a tart, citrusy zing that tames the spice and pairs beautifully with sticky ribs.

• Punk IPA: classic citrus and pine, great with beef burgers.
• Wingman AF: non-alcoholic IPA, perfect for spicy wings and all-day sipping.
• GRAPE ESCAPE: tart grapefruit sour, ideal with ribs and pulled pork.

Non-Alcoholic Options: Why Wingman AF Steals the Show

Not everyone wants alcohol at a BBQ, but that doesn't mean they should miss out on great flavour. Wingman AF is BrewDog's non-alcoholic IPA that delivers the same hoppy character as its full-strength cousins. With notes of grapefruit and pine, it stands up to bold BBQ sauces and spicy rubs. It's also a smart choice if you're grilling all day and want to stay sharp.

Pair Wingman AF with anything coated in a sticky glaze – think barbecue chicken wings or glazed pork chops. The carbonation helps cut through the sweetness, while the bitterness balances the heat. Serve it ice-cold in a glass with a slice of lime for extra refreshment.

• Wingman AF has under 0.5% ABV, so it's suitable for designated drivers.
• Its hoppy profile makes it a convincing alternative to regular IPA.

Serving Tips for Your BBQ Beer Spread

Temperature matters: serve lagers and IPAs between 4-6°C (39-43°F) to keep them crisp. Sours like GRAPE ESCAPE can be served slightly warmer to let the fruit notes shine. Use a cooler or an insulated bucket to keep bottles and cans cold, especially on hot summer days.

Glassware enhances the experience – a tulip glass concentrates aromas for IPAs, while a weizen glass showcases the colour of a sour. But let's be honest: at a BBQ, cans are convenient and keep beer colder longer. BrewDog's cans are perfect for outdoor gatherings, and you can always pour into a glass if you want the full sensory experience.

• Keep non-alcoholic beers like Wingman AF extra cold – they benefit from lower temperatures.
• Offer a variety: have at least one IPA, one lager, and one sour or fruity option.

The best BrewDog beers for a BBQ are those that match your menu and your guests' preferences. Whether you go for the bold hops of Punk IPA, the easy-drinking Lost Lager, or the non-alcoholic Wingman AF, there's a perfect pour for every plate. Don't forget to toss in a fruity sour like GRAPE ESCAPE for a refreshing surprise. Fire up the grill, crack open a cold one, and enjoy the summer.