Introduction
Buffalo wings are among America’s favourite appetizers. They go perfectly with a cold beer, and nothing quite beats a spicy buffalo wing paired with an ice-cold IPA. But with so many IPA options available out there, how do you know which one pairs best with your buffalo wings? In this guide, we have done some research and come up with some of the most effective IPAs you can enjoy with your buffalo wings.
The Magic duo – IPA and Buffalo Wings
Buffalo wings were invented in 1964 by a bar owner in Buffalo, New York, who wanted to create something new and exciting for his customers. He came up with the idea of coated deep-fried chicken wings covered in hot sauce – and the buffalo wing was born! Over the years, this dish has become an American staple food, served in sports bars, pubs, and restaurants across the country. While the origins of the buffalo wing are exciting, the best part is pairing them with a cold IPA for the ultimate combination. The hoppy bitterness of the IPA nicely balances the heat of the buffalo sauce, while the carbonation helps clean your palate, so you can enjoy each wing fully. Here’s a list of our top IPA options you can enjoy with your spicy buffalo wings.
Lagunitas IPA
Lagunitas IPA is undoubtedly one of the best IPAs you can enjoy with your buffalo wings. This IPA is brewed by Lagunitas Brewing Company, based in California. This beer has a beautiful golden colour and a citrusy aroma. It’s a medium-bodied beer that’s well-balanced, which makes it the perfect match for spicy buffalo wings. The beer has a 6.2% ABV, so it does have a bit of a kick to it.
Stone IPA
Stone IPA is a classic California IPA brewed by Stone Brewing Company. The beer has a slightly bitter flavour, mainly due to the hops used in the brewing process. However, this bitterness is what makes it the perfect pairing for buffalo wings. The citrus notes in the beer also complement the spiciness of the buffalo sauce. This beer has a higher ABV at 6.9%, so you must pace yourself when drinking.
Sierra Nevada Torpedo
Sierra Nevada Torpedo is an American IPA brewed in California with a 7.2% ABV. The beer has a deep golden colour and a citrusy aroma. It has a moderate to high level of bitterness, which enhances the flavour of the buffalo wings. The beer has a nice balance of hoppy bitterness and malts, which makes it enjoyable to drink.
Ballast Point Sculpin
Ballast Point Sculpin is one of the most popular IPAs in America. The beer has a fruity aroma that complements the buffalo sauce nicely. The bitterness is well-balanced, making it less overpowering when paired with spicy wings. This beer has an ABV of 7%, so it’s a bit stronger than some of the other IPAs on our list. Since it’s a popular beer, you shouldn’t have trouble finding it at your local pub or sports bar.
Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA
Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA is an IPA brewed by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery. The beer has a nice amber colour and a citrusy aroma. The bitterness level is moderate, making it a perfect partner for buffalo wings. This IPA has an ABV of 6%, so it’s not the strongest beer on our list. Dogfish Head is a popular brewery, so you should expect to find this IPA at your local bar or restaurant.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to pairing buffalo wings with an IPA, it’s essential to find a beer that complements the spiciness of the buffalo sauce without overpowering it. The list provided above offers some of the best IPA options to consider. Whether it’s the Sierra Nevada Torpedo, Ballast Point Sculpin, or Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, you are guaranteed an incredible drinking experience with your buffalo wings. So next time you’re indulging in buffalo wings, don’t forget to grab one of these IPAs to enjoy the perfect pairing!
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