As told to Shane Michael Singh
From left: Vicardin, Dynamo Copper Lager, Taras Boulba, and Charkoota Rye
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“Vicardin, which I just discovered on a recent trip to Belgium. It’s a clean balance of sour and malty for the adventurous drinker who prefers drier beers. I’m working on getting it imported to Chicago.”
—WENDY LITTLEFIELD, cofounder of the Belgian-beer importer Vanberg & DeWulf, cofounder of New York’s Brewery Ommegang, and recent Chicago transplant. See belgianexperts.com for updates on Vicardin
“Dynamo Copper Lager from Metropolitan, in Ravenswood. I like how their beer has a light effervescence without being a hop bomb. And it’s accessible, something the average joe can enjoy at a ball game or pair with dinner.”
—ROGER FALK, president of the Chicago Beer Society, a 700-member club of beer-loving locals. $10.99 for a six-pack at Whole Foods, 1515 N. Kingsbury St.; wholefoodsmarket.com
“A Belgian import called Taras Boulba from Brasserie de la Senne in Brussels. It’s light and pleasant on the nose, with hints of citrus. You can’t beat the refreshing taste on a hot summer day, but you have to buy it fresh, ideally within three weeks of delivery, so ask the store when they got it in.”
—KRISTINA BOZIC, owner of the craft beer emporium West Lakeview Liquors. $4.49 for an 11.2 oz. bottle at West Lakeview Liquors, 2156 W. Addison St.; wlvliquors.com
“Charkoota Rye from New Holland Brewing Company. It’s like drinking bacon. The first mouthful is pretty shocking because you’re not prepared for the smoky caramel flavor, but once you’ve had a few more sips, you can’t get enough of it. Rich, extremely smooth, and perfect for a barbecue.”
—RANDY MOSHER, creative director of Chicago’s new 5 Rabbit Cerveceria and author of three books, including Tasting Beer: An Insider’s Guide. $7.99 for a 22 oz. bottle at Binny’s, 213 W. Grand Ave.; binnys.com