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Food
Cheers to Beers - February 2008
By Lindsey Shafer
Jan 31, 2008, 22:20

The American Brewers Association has officially identified over 100 styles of beer ranging from German-Style Weissbier to Belgian-Style Dubbels to Barrel-Aged to American Lager since its' creation in 1942.  Each style has guidelines by which a beer taster can compare and contrast how each entry stands up to the official rulings of the category.  For most of us, as long as it's cold (or 45-55 degrees, depending on the style), we won't complain. 

One of the more intriguing categories is the one that includes the mixed and hybrid beers - basically anything that does not fit specifically into the far reaching "ale" or "lager" categories.  This category includes Gluten-free beer, Coffee-flavored beer, Vegetable beer and one very broad category titled Specialty beers.  It has become an art amongst beer drinkers to travel over to this "mixed/hybrid" side and create their own sub-categories by enhancing and personalizing their brews with flavorings, mixers and spices.  What's even better is when a mixed/hybrid beer is already perfectly balanced and tasty; enter Budweiser and Bud Light Chelada.

Wait!  Before visions of lime, salt and watered down beer dance in your head - read on.  Bud/Bud Light Chelada is a blend of The Great American Lager and Clamato juice all in one convenient 16oz or 24oz can.  Can!?  Yes…a can - but think of this can as merely a vessel in which to hold this delicious blend of clamato, barley & hops because of course, like any beer connoisseur would with this type of beverage, you'll want to pour it into a glass over crushed ice, add a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of pepper, give the mix a quick stir and garnish with celery or a lime wedge. 

The Chelada style has been around since the 1940's and for those of you who haven't ventured into the mixed/hybrid category this is one great way to enjoy all it has to offer.  For those of us who frequent this category, enjoy this perfect combination responsibly.  Bud & Bud Light Chelada is an especially delicious and convenient alternative to a Bloody Mary and are great for drinking in the morning, afternoon and evening.  Cheers to spicing up your beer!