he Big Game is fast approaching. We all know what this means: football, wings, and copious amounts of subpar beer. The football and wings we can handle; a plain old can of beer just isn’t going to cut it. Then again, neither is a fussy, overdressed cocktail.

We have the solution: six recipes for simple, delicious, fizzy cocktails – from a beer-laced Manhattan to brown-butter spiced ale – that will allow you to class up your game-day party without taking yourself too seriously.

This Michelada is great if you're in the mood for something savory and refreshing that won't put you under the table. It has some of the classic flavors of a Bloody Mary (tomato, citrus, Worcestershire sauce), but because you use beer in place of vodka, the general effect slightly gentler.

A perfect (and easy!) drink for any champagne lover. The sugar cube mellows out the bitters, and a lemon twist dresses it up nicely.

Usually when you drink a Manhattan, all the warmth comes from the hit of booze, but here a nutty and bitter IPA gives the drink depth and a warming feeling throughout. The fizz of the beer gives the drink a little more life, too.

Flavorful and rich, creamy and warming, sweet and spiced just enough to mellow the bitterness of ale, this drink is a special treat. The splash of brandy adds a wonderfully boozy touch.

Cucumber and club soda keep this drink light, clean, and refreshing, making it the perfect thing to wash down spicy foods.

Ginger beer, lime, and vodka combine for a cocktail that is delicious and rule-free. With a simple ratio of 1 part vodka to 2 parts ginger beer, it’s easy to scale up for a crowd.