Beer Pick: SweetWater Second Helping IPA

ajc.com

Credit: Bob Townsend

Credit: Bob Townsend

For the fifth year in a row, SweetWater Brewing has partnered with The Giving Kitchen to serve up the limited-edition Second Helping IPA, with all profits from SweetWater and United Distributors donated to the Atlanta non-profit that helps out restaurant workers in need.

And because I love the beer, and I love the cause, it’s this week’s Beer Pick. But there are a few more things you should know about.

First, in addition to being available on draft, again, it will available in new, 16-ounce cans this year.

Second, SweetWater debuts Second Helping with a celebration at the brewery tonight at 4:20 p.m., and cans will be available for sale.

Also, at 6 p.m. on Jan. 9, you can be a part of the annual Second Helping cask tapping at Eleanor's , the speakeasy bar located inside Muss and Turner's in Smyrna.

The date marks the anniversary of Ryan Hidinger’s passing, and you can share a pint with Ryan Turner, Todd Mussman and Chris Hall, who will talk a bit about Ryan, the founding of The Giving Kitchen, and where things are headed with the non-profit.

Each Second Helping cask pint is $10 and all proceeds will be donated to The Giving Kitchen.

Beer Pick

SweetWater Second Helping IPA

Sweetwater Brewing Co., Atlanta, GA.

On draft and in 16-ounce cans in Atlanta for a limited time

Profile

SweetWater first brewed Second Helping as a collaboration between Ryan and Jen Hidinger and SweetWater head brewer Nick Nock to help raise awareness and money for The Giving Kitchen. Since then, this double IPA brewed with juniper berries has become a perennial favorite. And this year, it’s available in new 16-ounce cans, as well as on draft.

The recipe hasn’t changed at all in five years. It still has a distinct botanical presence, as the juniper berries seem to enhance the hops with herbal, minty aromas and flavors. followed by a dry finish. The malts add nutty and biscuity notes, and a pretty amber color.

Pair With

Try this bold IPA with pub grub, like sandwiches, burgers, or chicken wings, or pair it with spicy Mexican or Asian dishes.

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