Behind the Brew
Firebrick is the flagship craft brew here at Schell’s. The characteristics of the beer are a representation of the brewery itself; warm with an amber-red hue. Bricks that lined the old boilers at the brewery gave this beer its name, “Firebrick”. It has a subtle maltiness combined with a hint of hoppy taste that together create a mild, sessionable beer. Four specialty malts with the addition of Vanguard, Chinook, and Hallertau hops make this a very drinkable, year-round beer.
Food Pairings
Schell’s Firebrick is a very versatile beer when it comes to food pairings. Roasted pork and chicken work wonderfully; the malty backbone of the beer compliments the carmelization on the meat. Classic low and slow BBQ pork or beef (light on the acidic sauces), and grilled peppers, zucchini, onion, and mushrooms.
Spicy foods work well also, as the subtle sweetness is a nice contrast to the spice. Pizza with a slightly spicy sauce and hearty toppings such as green peppers, onions and mushrooms pair nicely with Firebrick. And, of course, sausage is a natural pairing. There are also a lot of options as far as cheese pairings go.
A nice, nutty cheddar would go well with the light maltiness of the beer, particularly with the toasted character of the Vienna lager. The tang of a mild blue cheese would be balanced nicely by the malty sweetness. Even the spiciness of a Monterey pepper jack would work.
Awards
Great American Beer Festival (American-Style Amber Lager) – Silver 2002
World Beer Cup (Vienna-Style Lager)- Gold 2014