We sat down with our friends Zach and Cliff at Truck & Tap along with our new friend Tiffany Dillon of Gwen Tajz wine bar.  We poked some beers, we mulled some wines (wine wine and barleywine) and we talked about serving traditionally cooler beverages warmer.  Luckily, when we recorded the show it was a seasonally-appropriate cooler temperature, the only cool day in the last couple of weeks actually.

While the image of a frosty mug overflowing with cold beer might be the first thing that comes to mind, the history of enjoying warmed brews stretches back centuries. Tonight, we're venturing beyond the icebox and exploring the comforting world of hot drinks, with a special focus on the surprising (and potentially delicious) realm of hot-poked beers.

A Toasty Tradition: Hot Drinks Through the Ages

From mulled wines enjoyed by medieval nobility to steaming cups of tea that fueled revolutions, hot beverages have long held cultural and practical significance. In colder climates, they provided warmth and comfort, while spices and herbs added flavor and potential health benefits. Even beer, that seemingly summery beverage, has a warm past. In fact, some historians believe that heated ales were the norm in ancient Europe, offering a safer alternative to potentially contaminated water.

Mulled Magic: Crafting the Perfect Winter Warmer

Mulled wine, a timeless classic, remains a popular choice for chilly evenings. The process is simple: simmer wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and citrus, creating an aromatic and warming concoction. But did you know you can adapt this recipe for beer lovers? Experiment with different styles and spices to find your perfect match.

Beyond the Bottle: Wine for the Beer-Curious

For those open to exploring new territory, natural wines offer a fascinating journey. These unfiltered, unfined wines focus on minimal intervention, showcasing the unique characteristics of the grape and terroir. If you're a beer enthusiast looking to expand your palate, natural wines with their emphasis on freshness and complexity might surprise you.

Poking Fun & Flavor: The Hot-Poked Beer Craze

Now, let's delve into the slightly unconventional world of hot-poked beers. This trend involves heating a mug of beer with a red-hot poker, supposedly caramelizing the sugars and creating a unique flavor profile. While opinions vary, there's no denying the intrigue and potential for experimentation. We'll compare and contrast the experience of a hot-poked beer versus

Thanks for listening to Beer Guys Radio! Your hosts are Tim Dennis and Brian Hewitt with producer Nate "Mo' Mic Nate" Ellingson and occasional appearances from Becky Smalls.

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