There is no debating that frosty cold beer enhances a summer afternoon like no other beverage—and there is a beer out there for just about every palate. Crisp cool pale ales, sharp edged lagers and heady dark beers.

Imported beers are readily available with varieties from Ireland, Scotland, England, Holland, Belgium, Germany and Japan. Many of these beers are sold in individual units so that you have the freedom to try different selections without committing to the whole six-pack.

Perhaps you’ve attended a wine tasting, why not host a beer tasting event at the cottage this summer? Arrange to have several local and imported beers on hand and allow guests to sample a diverse range of beverages that they may not otherwise try (remembering, of course, the designated driver rule.)

Just like certain foods pair with certain wines, have food on hand that would complement the various beers. A light ale complements salty food. A pilsner would go nicely with a bit of meat; and heavy malt beer would perfectly accompany a sweet dish.

If actually swilling beer isn’t to your liking (nobody’s perfect), there are other ways to enjoy this versatile beverage.

Add beer to your summer menu as a marinade to help tenderize tougher cuts of meat and add a unique flavour at the same time—or use beer to steam your mussels. Most people have heard of beer can chicken for the barbecue—simply open a can, take a good sip, then jam the beer can inside the cavity of a roasting hen and place it upright on the grill. It will continue to steam throughout the cooking process keeping slow cooking meat moist. And nothing enhances barbecue sauce like beer!