Carlsberg and Brooklyn Brewery created a brand-new, limited-edition Fonio Lager using drought-resistant fonio grains and Carlsberg yeast. Created as part of Brooklyn Brewery's Brewing for Impact campaign, the Fonio Lager is free from bittering hops and barley, demonstrating what's possible when inventive ideas meet new brewing techniques.
The lager made with the ancient West African grain is said to have "soft aromas of apricots, white peaches, and melon with an underlying sweetness and lingering bitterness giving a vibrant and delicate finish." Carlsberg's Fonio Lager will be available in limited quantities from the Home of Carlsberg in Copenhagen from August.
To mark this innovative launch, Carlsberg teamed up with Michelin-starred chef Adejoké Bakare of London's Chishuru restaurant on a five-course tasting menu to show how well the lager enhances food pairings.
Ancient Grain Lagers
Carlsberg & Brooklyn Brewery Made Fonio Lager with a Drought-Resistant Grain
Trend Themes
1. Ancient Grains Revival - Fonio and other ancient grains are being rediscovered for their unique flavors and environmental benefits, opening possibilities for new culinary applications.
2. Sustainable Brewing - Brewing beers with drought-resistant grains like fonio provides a way to create alcoholic beverages with a reduced environmental footprint.
3. Collaborative Culinary Pairings - Partnerships between breweries and chefs, exemplified by Carlsberg and chef Adejoké Bakare, elevate food and drink experiences through collaborative, menu-tailored tastings.
Industry Implications
1. Craft Breweries - Craft breweries are innovating with non-traditional ingredients like fonio to create unique beverage offerings that stand out in a saturated market.
2. Sustainable Agriculture - The use of drought-resistant grains in commercial products underscores the growing intersection of sustainable agriculture practices and consumer goods.
3. High-end Dining - The collaboration between Carlsberg and a Michelin-starred chef highlights an emerging trend where high-end dining integrates unique alcohol pairings into their gourmet experiences.