An orchestration of textures and temperatures at Blue Heron Brewery

Blue Heron Brewery: Bright Lights

Heavy bar foods are the go-to companion for beer, but Blue Heron Brewery in Medina makes the case that eating and drinking light enhances flavors all around.

Brewmaster and co-owner Mike Piazza tweaks the brewing process to lighten up his Hazy Wife, Hazy Life IPA ($6.50). Whereas typical hazies and India pale ales are bitter and made by putting in a lot of hops early in the boil, Piazza adds citrusy Mosaic, Citra and Amarillo hops toward the end of the boil and after fermentation. This preserves the sweet and sour flavors of the hops, while eliminating the heavy bitter taste. 

“It has a soft mouthfeel, and it gives you these bright citrus flavors that appeal to your taste buds,” he says. “It leaves you with a taste of orange rind and lemon rind [and] cleans your palate to get you ready for your next sip.”

The beer’s refreshing taste amplifies the bright snap of the jalapeno lime agave vinaigrette drizzled atop the Southwestern orzo shrimp salad ($15).

Fresh-off-the-grill Parmesan garlic-roasted shrimp topping a cold mix of orzo, charred corn, black beans, cilantro, lime and cotija cheese make eating this dish a vivid experience. 

“It’s truly an orchestration of textures and temperatures,” Piazza says. “You’ve got your hot and cold, and you’ve got your acidic.” 

The pairing is the perfect pick to savor in the dining room that has gorgeous views or on one of the three expansive patios that are open year-round.

“It’s a very light dish to mesh with a light beer,” says executive chef and co-owner Ben Erjazec. “It’s great to enjoy while sitting on the patio where it’s peaceful — like dining in a park.”

Craving More? Mediterranean ahi tuna salad, $14, and Matrimony cream ale, $6.50, curbside pickup available, 3227 Blue Heron Trace, Medina, 330-870-2583, blueheronmedina.com