Spring has arrived, yet it is cold and dreary in NYC, with grey skies and showers casting over what little sunshine we've had this season. It's not exactly conjuring up visions of strawberries on farmer's market tables anytime soon. But down south in New Orleans, it is blue skies and a perfect 70 degrees. The strawberry season is in full swing and farmers in the "strawberry capital of the US" are less than two weeks away from the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival!
But what's even more exciting is that this means it's Abita Strawberry season. Each year, Abita Brewing Company, makes a lager that is infused with fresh Ponchatoula strawberry juice. It is light and crisp, with a sweet fruity finish. Perfect for an warm afternoon, but dangerous because they are just too easy to drink. Before you know it, one bottle will turn into a handful.
For a lovely brunch cocktail, try what I like to call the Pink Velvet. Top three parts champagne with one part Abita Strawberry beer, and garnish with a bit of diced strawberry. The beer has become popular enough that if you don't live in Louisiana, you might find it (or request it to be ordered) at your local beer shop or Whole Foods Market.
