5 Types of Craft Beer You Really Need to Know About
From IPAs to stouts, this list of 5 types of craft beer will introduce you to new flavors and styles that every beer lover should know.
Craft beer has taken the world by storm, offering an incredible array of flavors, styles, and experiences. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the vast world of craft beer. In this blog post, we will explore the five types of craft beer that you absolutely need to know. From the classic lagers to the trendy New England IPAs, from indulgent milk stouts to refreshing pale ales, these beers represent a fantastic starting point for your craft beer journey. So, let’s dive right in!
New England IPA
The New England IPA, or NEIPA for short, has taken the craft beer scene by storm in recent years. Known for its hazy appearance, tropical fruit aromas, and juicy flavor, this style is a hop lover’s dream. The hazy appearance comes from the use of certain brewing techniques and the addition of wheat or oats. If you’re a fan of intense hop aromas and flavors, the New England IPA is a must-try.
Barrel-Aged Beer
Barrel-aged beers are aged in wooden barrels, typically oak, which imparts unique flavors and aromas. These beers are often strong, complex and can be aged in whiskey, bourbon, or wine barrels, resulting in characteristics like vanilla, oak or wood of choice. There is a particular tradition of barrel ageing beer and the first barrel-aged beers are considered to be produced in the United States.
Milk Stout
If you have a sweet tooth or enjoy rich, indulgent flavors, a milk stout is the beer for you. A milk stout is a unique style of beer that is characterized by its rich, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. Milk stouts typically have a dark appearance, ranging from deep brown to opaque black, and often exhibit flavors reminiscent of roasted malt, chocolate, and coffee. Milk stouts, also known as sweet stouts, are brewed with lactose, a type of sugar that is unfermentable by yeast.
Pale Ale
Pale ales are a fantastic introduction to the world of hop-forward beers. With a balance between maltiness and hop bitterness, pale ales offer a wide range of flavor profiles. They can range from light and citrusy to bold and resinous, depending on the hops used. Pale ales often showcase a beautiful amber color and a moderate level of alcohol. Whether you’re new to craft beer or a seasoned enthusiast, pale ales are a versatile and reliable choice for any occasion.
Lager
Lagers are arguably the most well-known and widely consumed beer style around the world. Known for their clean, crisp, and refreshing qualities, lagers are characterized by their bottom-fermenting yeast and colder fermentation temperatures. They often have a lighter color and a smooth, balanced flavor profile. Lagers are perfect for those who prefer a mellow and easy-drinking beer.