Alcohol and Movie Parings #4: Indiana Jones and the quest for the best India Pale Ale

In a recent viewing of "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, I go to thinking of exotic but accessible beers that would go good with the theme of Indiana Jones films. Sure a good German Dopplebock or Hefeweizen could go well - but that'd be cliche, and I've already done cliche a few times. India Pale Ale might seem a little cliche as well, considering the setting of the second film, but trust me on this one. And no, it's also not because his name is Indiana.

India Pale Ale drums up the old days of European exploring of the unknown. While Indiana Jones is set in the 30s and 40s, it drums up a distinct reminder of the days that exploration was actually exploration - setting out with a map and a backpack filled with what you need. IPAs are a nice, crisp alternative to the normal pale beers that people drink.

Pare up the films with Two Hearted Ale, Stone India Pale Ale, or if you're in Virginia: Legend Hopfest when it's in season. Heck, grab a Dogfish head 60 Minute or Sierra Nevada while you're at it.

If you don't care if you make it through the film try a Imperial/Double IPA. Weyerbacher Double Simcoe IPA, Rogue Imperial India Pale Ale (I²PA) or Stone Ruination IPA will get you buzzed long before Indy can shoot the guy with the machete.