Oct 7, 2021 - Food and Drink

How to enjoy a sober October sports season

Monica Eng

Beers and dog. — Chicago's non-alcoholic craft beers are so cool that Monica's dog insisted on photobombing a pictures of them. See feet. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios

👋 Monica here: As we head into a big sports week I'm hoping to be invited to some groovy watching parties — ideally outdoors with vaccinated guests.

But I'm a little tired of the eye rolls when I show up with the usual case of sparkling water.
So I jumped at the chance to try a press sample of non-alcoholic craft beer made locally at Big Drop Brewing.

Why it matters: Most non-alcoholic beers taste like junk, so showing up with a awesome local version could instantly boost my popularity — and allow designated drivers (and other abstainers) to enjoy some tasty brewskis with their cheese dip during the game.

🍺 My tasting notes:

Pine Trail Pale Ale: Refreshing with a grapefruit-y hello.
Galactic Extra Dark: A fine coffee nose with a nice malty finish.
Big Drop Paradiso IPA: Hints of lychee with a lovely final note of bitter grapefruit.

The verdict: I'd proudly bring these brews to the big game — and maybe not even let on that they're non-alcoholic.

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How to enjoy a sober October sports season

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