Chef Rick Bayless and Goose Island to Collaborate

Goose island Brewery and chef Rick Bayless have announced a partnership to create a beer that will pair with Bayless' high end Mexican cuisine. (I must confess to my admiration for Rick Bayless. On his cooking shows, he's such an approachable and passionate person.)

Goose Island brew master Greg Hall described the beer, which will have a Belgian-style base, as “fruity, and spicy up front.” The goal is to make something that pairs with guacamole, ceviche and other starters at Bayless’ three restaurants: Xoco, Frontera Grill and Topolobampo.

“It will have a lot of citrus -- an unusual citrus -- and be very bright with a forward spice character, but not heat spice,” Hall said.

A Bayless spokesperson said by e-mail that the beer will have “a light, refreshing, crisp vibe to match the lime zing that is in a lot of our food.” In addition to the strong citrus, it could “possibly (have an) herbal component or floral component.”

"The unnamed beer will be available in 650 milliliter bottles at Bayless’ restaurants and at Goose Island brew pubs. It is expected to be available this summer."

I may have to add Chicago to my NHC itinerary.