Craft Beer Cheat Sheet: Your Guide to the Best Brews
Craft beer has become increasingly popular over the past few years, with the number of craft breweries in the U.S. more than quadrupling since the mid-1980s. With so many new and exciting craft beers to try, it can be hard to know where to start. Whether you’re a craft beer novice or an experienced connoisseur, this craft beer cheat sheet will help you find the perfect brew.
Types of Craft Beer
The first step in finding the right craft beer is understanding the different types. Craft beers can range from light, easy-drinking lagers to dark and intensely flavorful stouts. Here are some of the most popular types of craft beer:
- IPA (India Pale Ale): IPAs are a type of pale ale that is brewed with extra hops for a stronger, more bitter flavor and aroma. They are typically golden or copper in color and range from 4-7% ABV.
- Pale Ale: Pale ales are lighter in color and body than IPAs, but still have a full flavor and hop character. They usually range from 4-6% ABV.
- Stout: Stouts are a type of dark beer that is usually made with roasted barley or malt for a rich, full flavor. They range from 4-8% ABV.
- Pilsner: Pilsners are light, crisp lagers that are typically golden in color. They are usually 4-6% ABV.
- Wheat Beer: Wheat beers are made with a higher proportion of wheat than barley, giving them a light, refreshing flavor. They range from 4-6% ABV.
- Saison: Saisons are a type of farmhouse ale that are typically light and refreshing. They usually range from 4-7% ABV.
How to Choose the Right Craft Beer
Once you understand the different types of craft beer, you can start to narrow down your choices. Here are a few tips to help you find the perfect brew:
- Think About Your Tastes: Consider the flavors and aromas that you like in beer. Do you prefer a hoppy, bitter beer or a malty, sweet beer? Knowing your preferences will help you narrow down your choices.
- Read the Label: Read the label carefully to get a better understanding of the beer. Pay attention to the ABV (alcohol by volume) and IBU (International Bitterness Units) to get an idea of the beer’s strength and bitterness.
- Try Something New: Don’t be afraid to try something new! Experimenting with different styles of beer can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Where to Find Craft Beer
Craft beer can be hard to find, but there are a few places you can look:
- Local Breweries: Many cities and towns have local breweries that offer a variety of craft beers. Visiting a local brewery is a great way to try new beers and support your local economy.
- Beer Festivals: Beer festivals are a great way to sample a wide range of craft beers. Many festivals offer special tastings and events, so check your local area for upcoming events.
- Online Retailers: Online retailers like BeerAdvocate, Craft Beer Club, and Beer of the Month Club offer a wide selection of craft beers from around the world. These clubs also offer monthly subscriptions, so you can always have fresh craft beers delivered to your door.
Craft beer is a great way to explore new flavors and discover new favorites. With this craft beer cheat sheet, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect brew.
