Gluten-Free Beer and I Like It!

Beer on the Holiday

Is there anything more ubiquitous on the Fourth of July than fireworks and beer?

I didn't think so.

But I've never been a fan of beer. I remember it as always being bitter.

I'm not a fan of bitter.

In any form.

Endive or beer. Doesn't matter.

No bitter for me.

Ah... except for maybe chocolate and coffee. Not necessarily together, but sometimes....

Anyways, when I had to become gluten-free, I didn't miss not being able to have beer.

I had never met a beer worth missing. In my book, they had all been bitter.

Granted, my exposure may have been limited.

But no matter. I didn't miss what I couldn't have. At least, not when it came to beer.

Recently, a friend and beer connoisseur and home brewer suggested I try this gluten-free beer.

I admit it. I was skeptical.

I'd never yet met a beer worth pursuing.

Enter Dogfish Head's Tweason'ale Strawberry Gluten-Free Beer.

Dogfish Head Tweason'ale

I told my friend I would try it sometime.

I must not have been very convincing.

Many weeks later, he came by with a four-pack for me. He said it might be seasonal and this is likely the end of the season for this year.

Now, I had no excuses. I had to try it.

But I've been traveling. I haven't gotten around to trying this gluten-free beer.

And, I guess, I was still a bit skeptical.

But now I had it in hand and couldn't just ignore my friend's efforts.

What better time than the Fourth of July to try it? 

None. No better time.

And I was surprised.

It's not bitter!

Not bitter, as in none whatsoever. Strawberries are prominent. 

Sweet? Maybe. But not really. Not sickeningly sweet. Not even as sweet as a tart margarita.

Palatable.

Better than palatable. Good.

And completely gluten-free!

Ingredients:  Water, sorghum syrup, strawberries, honey, hops, yeast.

No gluten!

I was surprised to find this drinkable. It may still not edge out margaritas as my preferred libation (I love lime!), but it is good enough for me to consider looking for it in my local store.

But it may not be there until next year.

I hope you can find some to try. It is worth it! (Especially, when a friend brings you some!)

Happy Fourth of July, with or without (gluten-free) beer!