Beer and Buffalo wings go hand in hand, but choosing the right beer to pair with this classic dish can be a bit tricky. To help us navigate this delicious dilemma, we turned to Jeff Tyler, the head brewer and co-owner of Colorado’s Spice Trade Brewery + Kitchen.

Tyler recommends opting for something light, effervescent, and crisp when enjoying Buffalo wings. His top choice? A Mexican lager. This type of beer provides the perfect balance to the spicy buffalo sauce without overwhelming it. The spice and acidity of the wings need a beer that can cleanse the palate between bites without filling you up, and a Mexican lager fits the bill perfectly.

However, it’s important to note that not all beers are a good match for wings. If you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, you may want to steer clear when enjoying this savory dish. Hops can intensify the spiciness of the sauce, making it even hotter. So unless you’re a glutton for pain, it’s best to save the IPAs for another occasion.

But what if you want to turn up the heat even more? Tyler suggests trying a chili beer, such as their Jalapeno Mexican lager, which adds an extra kick to your wings. Unfortunately, if you don’t have access to Spice Trade’s brews, there are other chili-spiced beers readily available across the country. For example, Wilson, North Carolina’s Casita Brewing Company offers Fiesta Fiesta Lager, made with Tajín Clásico chili/lime seasoning, lime juice, and habanero. This lager provides a crisp and acidic companion to your Buffalo wings, along with a subtle background heat from the spices.

Another option is Evil Twin Brewing’s ET Stay Home 8 from New York City, which combines pineapple and guava fruits with a chili kick. This tropical twist on chili beer is lightly sweet and fruity, with a citrus acidity that pairs beautifully with Buffalo wings.

So the next time you indulge in a plate of delicious Buffalo wings, remember to choose your beer wisely. A light and crisp Mexican lager will complement the flavors perfectly, while a chili beer can add an extra level of spice if you’re feeling adventurous. Whatever you decide, just be sure to have plenty of napkins on hand!