The three C's of beer pairing are Complementarity, Contrast, and Compatibility. Complementarity describes the idea that when two components of a dish or drink are similar in flavor, they can work together to create a more balanced and enjoyable experience.  For example, pairing a light beer with grilled fish can enhance the natural flavors of both elements. Contrast is another element of beer pairing that involves matching beers and dishes that have contrasting characteristics. By showcasing different qualities in the same dish, the experience becomes more interesting.  An example would be matching a hoppy IPA with a creamy dessert such as ice cream - the bitter hops from the beer bring out the sweetness of the dessert and provide an unexpected balance between sweet and savory. Finally, Compatibility focuses on choosing beers and dishes that share similar flavors. This is done to create harmony between two components that already have some similarities in terms of the taste profile.  A great example is pairing nutty brown ale with smoked meats like brisket - both contain notes of caramelized sugar and wood smoke, which combine to create an unforgettable flavor profile.