HOW TO PAIR BEER WITH EVERYTHING: Union Jack IPA by Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
Beer: Union Jack IPA
Brewer: Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
Style: American IPA
ABV: 7.50%
Description: Union Jack pours a clear golden orange with a bright white head that is very retentive and leaves behind layers of lacing on the glass. The aroma is filled with hop notes of pineapple, citrus, and pine with very subtle honey-like malt notes present in the background. The taste follows the nose with a strong hop presence throughout, with notes of grapefruit, tangerine, pine, and citrus balanced against a semi-sweet malt bill that allows the hops to be assertive but still kept in balance. The medium body and moderate carbonation are perfect for the American IPA style and leave behind a wonderful dry finish that leaves you wanting more.
The bright hops and smooth mouthfeel make this an incredibly easy-drinking beer. Union Jack is not only a great IPA, but it is a benchmark that other American IPAs should be judged against. It’s a must-try beer for all fans of IPAs and craft beer in general!
Ideal setting: The bright aroma and flavor profile of Union Jack will awaken the senses and act as a wonderful social lubricant for a great night out with friends. This is a beer that is truly great for all occasions, so enjoy it while having a small get-together at home or while you’re out at your favorite bar.
Ideal music: The dualistic qualities of Union Jack create a beer that is both invigorating and relaxing. This is a beer to enjoy while unwinding after a long day listening to some soothing music or one to enjoy while having a great time together with friends. The decision of the evening is yours to make, but a great indie rock album always make a good beer even better!
Some great albums to enjoy with Union Jack are:
- Elliott – “False Cathedrals”
- Texas Is the Reason – “Do You Know Who You Are?”
- Dear Ephesus – “The Absent Sounds of Me”
- The Grey AM – “Move the Monuments East”
- Pinback – “Summer in Abaddon”
Ideal movie: While Union Jack may immediately come across as a perfect summer beer, it goes much deeper than a simple pairing with summer fun films. Instead, Union Jack is an excellent beer to enjoy while watching films that provide a nostalgic look back at a bygone era.
Some great films to watch while enjoying Union Jack are:
- “Atari: Game Over”
- “Rewind This!”
- “The Wizard”
- “Empire Records”
- “High Fidelity”
Ideal book: Union Jack is the perfect accompaniment for a great book; the bright characteristics will keep you at attention, and the moderate ABV will help you relax, but not get too relaxed. This combination makes it the perfect beer to enjoy while reading about a favorite hobby that you currently have or are looking to try out.
Some great books to read with Union Jack are:
- “Make Your Own Damn Movie!: Secrets of a Renegade Director” by Lloyd Kaufman
- “How to Brew: Everything You Need to Know to Brew Beer Right the First Time” by John J. Palmer
- “Vintage Beer” by Patrick Dawson
- “Mini Farming: Self-Sufficiency on 1/4 Acre” by Daniel Clowes
- “Tasting Beer: An Insider’s Guide to the World’s Greatest Drink” by Randy Mosher
The perfect experience: Union Jack is full of all the characteristics that make a world-class beer. The wonderful hop aromatics, smooth malt bill, and easy-drinking qualities make this a great beer to have while enjoying time with friends and listening to great music. Union Jack is also now available in cans, which also make this a great beer to take on any upcoming camping trips!
