New Beer Resolutions
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by Rebecca Patrick
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on the past, set new goals, and embrace new experiences. Last year, I visited several breweries and sampled new craft beer styles, but this year I’m resolving to explore the world of craft beer even more deeply. Here are a few of my “new beers resolutions.”
Master One Style
I’ve learned bits and pieces about different beer styles—like the origins of the India Pale Ale and Russian Imperial Stout—but this year, I want to dive into the full history of a single style. When did it first appear? How has it evolved? What role does it play in local culture today?
I’ll be starting my research with a few go-to resources, including The Oxford Companion to Beer, Mosher’s Tasting Beer, and Wild Brews.
Girls’ Pint Out
This year, a Girls’ Pint Out chapter is starting in my area, and I’m thrilled to get involved with this amazing community of female craft beer fans. Founded in Indianapolis in 2010, Girls’ Pint Out’s mission is to enjoy, learn about, and introduce more women to craft beer through fun, inclusive events. Each chapter hosts monthly meetups—anything from casual brewery hangouts to yoga classes or trivia nights. With over thirty chapters nationwide, there’s likely one near you!
Cook With Beer
Last year, I started experimenting with baking using beer—adding it to cakes, breads, cupcakes, and cookies. I was inspired by recipes from The Beeroness, NPR’s The Salt and Kitchen Window series, and the iconic Nigella Lawson Guinness Chocolate Cake.
Baking with beer—especially dark styles—adds a deep, rich flavor and can make cakes and cupcakes more tender. This year, I’m taking things up a notch and learning to cook savory dishes with beer, starting with recipes from The American Craft Beer Cookbook.
About the Author: Rebecca Patrick is a food and drink blogger specializing in craft beer and baking with beer at The Bake & Brew. Her favorite styles are wet-hopped pale ales and sours, but she enjoys exploring all varieties. She also founded the St. Louis chapter of Girls’ Pint Out, a women’s organization devoted to expanding beer knowledge through collaboration and community.
