Now, for those of us over the legal drinking age, alcoholic beverages are often a necessary accoutrement when watching a UFC pay-per-view event. However, with such a wide range of beers, wines, and spirits available, it can sometimes be difficult to choose something that may really fit the event. That can leave you relying on the “same old same old,” or – even worse – cheap, bad beer. We here at MMASucka don’t want to see that happen to you, though. That’s why we’re bringing you this PPV-week series to help ensure that you have quality drinks for watching (hopefully) quality fights, inspired by a fighter on the card.
It’s time for UFC 184, and while we have Ronda Rousey vs. Cat Zingano in the main event, we’re not going to go searching for beers from their regions. Why? Well, I feel like I’ve spotlighted too many California beers already. It’s actually kind of shocking just how many UFC main champs are in Cali or New York. So, the fine California craft brew scene will be taking a break, and I’m going to tip you off to something that’s a little closer to home for me: Heroica Red Ale from Steamworks Brewery in Vancouver, BC.
Now, why go with the Heroica? Well, for one, it’s positively heroic to expect Ronda Rousey to sell a card after Weidman vs. Belfort was dropped, and to do it after the UFC jacked pay-per-view prices by $5. So there’s your thematic link. Next, it’s just a crisp, easy-drinking red ale that’s not going to take you the length of the prelims to finish. At only 45 IBU and 5.6% ABV, it’s also not going to knock you on your butt. The Centennial Citra and Simcoe hops give it a sharp, but not overly bitter taste with a pleasant finish. The Otter Cara 8, Munich Cara 45, and Black malts provide hints of caramel, toffee, and hazelnut, providing a medium body to this fine red ale.
Steamworks Brewery’s Heroica Red Ale is available in 4 bottle packs, or as part of the brewery’s winter sampler case. For more information, head to their website.