We Give Thanks to Craft Beer

By: Paula Polei

It’s that time of year when everyone reflects on what they’re thankful for and gathers with loved ones to celebrate. This Thanksgiving, BOB sat down with Luciano Scremin, Owner and Brewmaster at Engine 15 Brewing Company, to talk about his family traditions and favorite seasonal beers.

Engine 15 Brewing Company | Luciano Scremin | Jacksonville, FL

“We’re most thankful for a healthy, happy family,” says Scremin. “Since we don’t have relatives nearby in Jacksonville, we like to invite friends and colleagues who might not have that big family atmosphere on Thanksgiving. It’s a way to pay it forward and enjoy great company.”

At their table, you’ll always find craft beer—both Engine 15 favorites and brews from nearby local breweries. “Nothing says fall like a good pumpkin beer or Oktoberfest,” Scremin adds. “We always have our Pumpmaster and Das Oktoberfest on the table, along with a couple of growlers of local favorites like Double Overhead.”

Craft beer and Thanksgiving dinner table

Thanksgiving Craft Beer Pairings

Thanksgiving is the ultimate pairing occasion—there’s a craft beer to complement every course. Once your menu is set, consider these beer styles for the perfect holiday lineup.

Game Time Snacks and Appetizers

  • Pilsners – Light, crisp, and refreshing, pilsners are perfect for shrimp, bruschetta, or light salads. Their subtle spice and clean finish keep your palate fresh for what’s ahead.
  • Pale Ales – Balanced with hops and malt, pale ales pair beautifully with cheese platters or shrimp appetizers, offering floral and fruity notes without overpowering flavors.

Main Course

  • Farmhouse Ales – With a balance of sweet and bitter, farmhouse ales are a refreshing match for turkey. Their effervescence and slight tartness cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Belgian Ales – Light-bodied and aromatic, Belgians are a Thanksgiving favorite. Their fruity and spicy notes pair wonderfully with roasted turkey and herbed side dishes.

Dessert

  • Barleywine – Fruity and rich, this style complements pecan or apple pie. The English versions lean maltier, while American barleywines bring a hoppy bite to balance the sweetness.
  • Milk Stout – With roasted malt and creamy sweetness, milk stouts are made for dessert. Try one with pumpkin or chocolate pie for a decadent finish.
Craft beer pairing for Thanksgiving meal

Pairing Tips

As a rule of thumb, match the intensity of your beer with your food — heartier meals need bolder beers. Sweet dishes pair best with sweet brews, and tart flavors complement tart beers. Above all, trust your palate! Experimenting with complementary and contrasting flavors can lead to some surprisingly delicious results.

From our family to yours, we’re thankful for the brewers, beer lovers, and communities who make the craft beer world thrive. Here’s to good food, good beer, and good company this Thanksgiving.

Cheers!

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