Drink of the Week: Destihl Brewery Spicy Pickle Sour Beer

If the continuing popularity of the Dirty Martini and the worldwide embrace of the “pickleback” shot are any indication, savory flavors are sitting squarely in the spotlight of our current culinary obsessions. And while Spicy Pickle Sour Beer might sound more like a practical joke than an actual beverage, I can assure you it is actually quite delicious—if you like pickles, that is.

The Destihl Brewery in Normal, Illinois, partnered with their neighbors at SuckerPunch Gourmet to produce a Dill Pickle Sour Beer that’s available year-round due to popular demand. But their newest offering in the Wild Sour Series is a limited release that ups the wallop factor by utilizing SuckerPunch’s spicy garlic pickle brine. Yes, Destihl’s Spicy Pickle Sour Beer does taste very much like pickles, with a spicy, garlicky kick to boot—and it’s fantastic. Just try to take a sip without uttering, “Whoa!”

Destihl uses their tart, lightly spicy gose ale as a base for the Spicy Pickle Sour Beer. It’s a perfect complement to the salty flavors and heat added by the pickle brine. However, I need to stress this again: You absolutely must be a diehard pickle fan to enjoy this beer. If so, go ahead and crack one open alongside a hot dog or a burger and fries for a winning combination—no pickle spear necessary. For distribution, see www.destihl.com.