If you’re a beer enthusiast looking to elevate your drinking experience, craft beer is the way to go. With a growing number of local craft breweries popping up, the craft beer scene has exploded over the past few years. Gone are the days when your only options were mass-produced beers. Today, you can enjoy a range of exciting and unique brews, each with its own distinct flavor profile. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned connoisseur, here’s your ultimate guide to must-try craft beers, so you can explore the world of artisanal brews with confidence.
1. What Are Craft Beers?
Before diving into our recommendations, let’s clarify what craft beers are. Unlike the mass-produced lagers and ales we’re used to seeing on the shelves, craft beers are brewed in small batches by independent breweries. These beers often feature distinctive flavors, creative ingredients, and innovative brewing techniques. The emphasis is on quality, variety, and local flavors, often incorporating regional ingredients and techniques. It’s a refreshing departure from the predictable taste of mainstream beers.
2. The Best Craft Beers to Try
There’s an overwhelming variety of craft beers available today, but a few stand out as the best craft beers for both newcomers and experienced beer drinkers. Here are some top choices from across the globe:
IPA (India Pale Ale)
One of the most popular styles in the craft beer world, IPA is known for its bold, hoppy flavor and higher alcohol content. Many local craft breweries produce their own versions, and each will offer a slightly different twist on this fan-favorite. The best craft beers in this category come from breweries that use a mix of citrusy, piney, and floral hops to create a complex taste that balances bitterness with citrusy zest.
Recommended Brands:
- Stone Brewing’s “Stone IPA”
- BrewDog’s “Punk IPA”
Stout
A rich, dark beer with flavors of roasted coffee, chocolate, and caramel, stout is a versatile style enjoyed by many beer lovers. Whether you prefer a smooth, creamy mouthfeel or a more robust, bitter finish, there’s a stout for every palate. Some of the best craft beers in the stout category are brewed with added flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, and even spices, providing a whole new layer of complexity.
Recommended Brands:
- Founders Brewing Co. “Breakfast Stout”
- Guinness Nitro IPA (from a local craft brewery)
Pilsner
If you’re in the mood for something lighter but still flavorful, a pilsner might be your perfect pick. These beers offer a crisp, refreshing taste with just the right amount of bitterness. Known for their golden hue and bubbly effervescence, pilsners are an excellent choice for casual drinking or pairing with a wide range of foods.
Recommended Brands:
- Sierra Nevada “Pilsner”
- Victory Brewing’s “Prima Pils”
Saison
Saison is a farmhouse ale that originates from Belgium. It features a fruity and spicy character with a dry finish. This unique beer is often brewed in the warmer months, and it’s perfect for pairing with light meals like salads, seafood, or grilled vegetables. A beer tasting guide will tell you that saison is perfect for those looking for something crisp yet flavorful.
Recommended Brands:
- Ommegang Brewery’s “Saison Dupont”
- The Bruery “Rueuze Saison”
Wheat Beer
Wheat beers are typically light, refreshing, and perfect for a hot summer day. Made with a high percentage of wheat malt, these beers have a cloudy appearance and a slightly fruity taste. They can range from sweet to mildly tart, and they often have hints of banana and clove from the yeast used in fermentation.
Recommended Brands:
- Allagash Brewing Co. “White”
- Weihenstephaner “Hefeweissbier”
3. Discovering Local Craft Breweries
One of the best parts of being a craft beer lover is discovering local craft breweries in your area. These independent establishments often have exclusive offerings you won’t find in stores, including limited-edition beers and experimental brews. By supporting these small businesses, you not only get to try some of the best craft beers, but you also help support the growth of the craft beer community. If you’re not sure where to start, visit your local craft brewery and ask about their seasonal brews or collaborations with other brewers.
4. The Beer Tasting Guide: How to Taste Craft Beer Like a Pro
To truly appreciate the flavors and complexity of craft beers, it’s essential to understand how to taste beer properly. Here’s a simple beer tasting guide that will help you get the most out of your next tasting session:
1. Look
The first step is to observe the beer’s appearance. Is it clear or cloudy? What color is it? A deep amber? Golden yellow? The appearance can give you clues about the beer’s style and its ingredients.
2. Smell
Next, take a sniff. Smelling the beer allows you to identify the aromas before they hit your palate. Are you getting fruity, floral, or malty scents? The best craft beers often have a strong, inviting aroma that complements their taste.
3. Taste
Take a sip and let the beer sit in your mouth for a few seconds. Pay attention to the flavor profile. Is it sweet, bitter, sour, or savory? Do you taste hops, malts, or yeast? Craft beers are known for their complexity, so it’s important to savor every layer of flavor.
4. Feel
The texture of the beer is just as important as its flavor. Is it light and crisp or thick and creamy? The mouthfeel can dramatically change the way the beer tastes, so be sure to take note.
5. Finish
After swallowing, notice how the beer leaves a lingering taste. Does it fade quickly, or do the flavors stay with you? The finish can tell you a lot about the quality of the beer.
5. Exploring Popular Craft Beers in the Market
If you’re just starting your craft beer journey, or if you’re looking for a great place to begin, there are some popular craft beers that have stood the test of time and are consistently loved by beer drinkers worldwide. These beers are made with quality ingredients and brewing methods, ensuring that every sip is satisfying.
Lagunitas IPA
One of the most well-known and best craft beers, Lagunitas IPA is a fan favorite for its vibrant hoppy flavor and balanced bitterness. It’s a great introduction to IPAs if you’re new to the style.
Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA
With a perfect blend of bitterness and malty sweetness, this IPA is easy to drink and highly regarded as one of the best craft beers available today.
BrewDog Punk IPA
This brew combines tropical fruit flavors with a slightly bitter finish, making it a go-to beer for craft beer lovers everywhere. BrewDog is known for its experimental approach to brewing, so you’ll always find something exciting in their line-up.
Conclusion: Craft Beers Are for Everyone
Whether you’re looking to experiment with something new or you want to enjoy a classic favorite, there’s always something in the world of craft beers for every taste preference. From the unique offerings of local craft breweries to the more well-known and popular craft beers, there’s no shortage of options to explore. Follow the beer tasting guide, try different styles, and discover what you love most. Remember, the best craft beers are those that fit your personal preferences, so take your time to find your new favorites and enjoy the rich, diverse world of craft beer!
Cheers to your next beer adventure!
