Athletic Seasonal

Seasonal from ATHLETIC is a non-alcoholic beer, and the name points to a rotating release rather than a year-round recipe. The listing doesn't say which style or flavor this run uses, so check the label on the can for the current profile. Non-alcoholic seasonal beers from craft brewers usually follow the style of the season: lighter, crisper and citrus-leaning in warm months, and maltier, spiced or roasted in cooler ones. Expect a beer-like body and a clean finish, with less weight than a full-strength version. Serve it cold, around 38 to 45°F. At that temperature the carbonation stays lively and any bitterness stays in check. If the label describes a darker or spiced style, let it warm a few minutes in the glass so the malt and spice come forward. Pour it into a glass rather than drinking from the can, because the aroma carries much of the flavor in a beer. A pint glass or tulip suits most styles, and a stemmed tulip or snifter suits a richer, maltier release. Because non-alcoholic beer tastes like beer, it can go where a regular beer would. A lighter, hoppier seasonal works with grilled fish, fried chicken, tacos and salty snacks. A maltier one pairs with roasted vegetables, sausages, aged cheddar or something baked with caramelized notes. For a mixed drink, a splash over ice with lime or ginger makes an easy shandy-style cooler. It's best poured straight, though, since stirring it into a cocktail flattens the carbonation.