Arches Brewing Co-Founder Jeff Dake Talks Sprezzatura

We spoke with Arches Brewing Co-Founder Jeff Dake about Sprezzatura.

BC: What’s your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, etc.)?
My favorite aspect of the beer is the way it finishes so crisply. The end of your sip is defined, and the experience is complete. It gives a great palate reset for anything that you've paired with it or just another sip of this fine beer.

BC: Where does this beer’s name come from?
The spirit of this beer is the classic line from Outkast's Hey Ya: "What's cooler than being cool? ICE COLD" Sprezzatura is an Italian term dating back to the 1500s used to describe an air of nonchalance and ease a courtier would show in all of their actions. At its core, it means to appear easy and simple, while hiding the difficulty of the task and effort that you put in. It takes a lot to make this simple beer well, and the artistry is in making sure that no one can tell.   

BC: Is this your “desert island beer?”
Definitely. Infinitely drinkable and refreshing, I never get tired of this Italian-style pilsner!

BC: Can you describe this beer in 10 words or less?
Crisp, spicy citrus finish, grassy and golden-hued 

BC: Do you know a story – or have a personal story – that revolves around this beer?
I was first inspired by the concept of "Sprezzatura" when I read in a magazine that Italian businessmen had quit wearing belts as a fashion statement. The look is jarring because everyone expects the belt and the absence distracts most people, who don't realize that effort required to get perfectly tailored pants that still maintain all the clean lines of a business suit without one.  That concept lines up with the challenge of crafting lagers like Sprezzatura, making things dynamic without being complicated, and surprising people with how much they truly enjoy the simplicity.

BC: What's a good food pairing for this beer?
Because of the crisp character of this beer, it pairs perfectly with robust Italian sauces, cutting the acidity and resetting the palate. Whether it's pasta with marinara or pizza margherita, Sprezzatura lives up to its namesake by shining without having to be showy. It also pairs well with more simplistic fish dishes where the beer doesn't overshadow quality ingredients.

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