Explore 75+ Beer Styles - CraftBeer.com https://www.craftbeer.com/beer-styles Celebrating the Best of American Beer Fri, 08 May 2020 14:29:26 +0000 en-US hourly 1 New England IPA https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/new-england-ipa Tue, 20 Mar 2018 14:36:51 +0000 https://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=91091 Emphasizing hop aroma and flavor without bracing bitterness, the New England IPA leans heavily on late and dry hopping techniques to deliver a bursting juicy, tropical hop experience.

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]]> Emphasizing hop aroma and flavor without bracing bitterness, the New England IPA  leans heavily on late and dry hopping techniques to deliver a bursting juicy, tropical hop experience. The skillful balance of technique and ingredient selection, often including the addition of wheat or oats, lends an alluring haze to this popular take on the American IPA.

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]]> American Lager https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/american-lager Mon, 13 Jul 2015 20:12:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=51960 American lager has little in the way of hop and malt character. A straw to gold, very clean and crisp, highly carbonated lager.

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]]> American lager has little in the way of hop and malt character. A straw to gold, very clean and crisp, highly carbonated lager.

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]]> Contemporary Gose https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/contemporary-gose Mon, 13 Jul 2015 20:12:10 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=51961 Straw to medium amber, the contemporary Gose is cloudy from suspended yeast. A wide variety of herbal, spice, floral or fruity aromas other than found in traditional Leipzig-Style Gose are present, in harmony with other aromas. Salt (table salt) character is traditional in low amounts, but may be perceptible in varying intensities. Body is low […]

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]]> Straw to medium amber, the contemporary Gose is cloudy from suspended yeast. A wide variety of herbal, spice, floral or fruity aromas other than found in traditional Leipzig-Style Gose are present, in harmony with other aromas. Salt (table salt) character is traditional in low amounts, but may be perceptible in varying intensities. Body is low to medium-low. Low to medium lactic acid character is evident in all examples as sharp, refreshing sourness.

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]]> Smoke Beer https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/smoke-beer Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:26 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38083 When malt is kilned over an open flame, the smoke flavor becomes infused into the beer, leaving a taste that can vary from dense campfire, to slight wisps of smoke. Any style of beer can be smoked; the goal is to reach a balance between the style’s character and the smoky properties. Originating in Germany […]

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]]> When malt is kilned over an open flame, the smoke flavor becomes infused into the beer, leaving a taste that can vary from dense campfire, to slight wisps of smoke. Any style of beer can be smoked; the goal is to reach a balance between the style’s character and the smoky properties. Originating in Germany as rauchbier, this style is open to interpretation by U.S. craft brewers. Classic base styles include German-style Marzen/Oktoberfest, German-style bock, German-style dunkel, Vienna-style lager and more. Smoke flavors dissipate over time.

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]]> Smoke Porter https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/smoke-porter Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:26 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38080 Typically the base for the smoke porter beer style is a robust porter that is given smoky depth thanks to wood-smoked malt. Traditionally, brewers will cite the specific wood used to smoke the malt, and different woods will lend different flavors to the finished product. Smoke flavors dissipate over time.

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]]> Typically the base for the smoke porter beer style is a robust porter that is given smoky depth thanks to wood-smoked malt. Traditionally, brewers will cite the specific wood used to smoke the malt, and different woods will lend different flavors to the finished product. Smoke flavors dissipate over time.

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]]> Specialty Beer https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/specialty-beer Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:26 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38081 Ingredients used in the specialty beer style should be distinctive and evident in either the aroma, flavor or overall balance of the beer. This style category is a catch-all. Any specialty beer that does not fit other specialty beer styles would be appropriately considered here. Examples can include sahti, steinbier, white IPA, session IPA and […]

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]]> Ingredients used in the specialty beer style should be distinctive and evident in either the aroma, flavor or overall balance of the beer. This style category is a catch-all. Any specialty beer that does not fit other specialty beer styles would be appropriately considered here. Examples can include sahti, steinbier, white IPA, session IPA and more.

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]]> Rye Beer https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/rye-beer Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:26 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38079 In darker versions, malt flavor can optionally include low roasted malt characters (evident as cocoa/chocolate or caramel) and/or aromatic toffee-like, caramel, or biscuit-like characters. Low-level roasted malt astringency is acceptable when balanced with low to medium malt sweetness. Hop flavor is low to medium-high. Hop bitterness is low to medium. These beers can be made […]

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]]> In darker versions, malt flavor can optionally include low roasted malt characters (evident as cocoa/chocolate or caramel) and/or aromatic toffee-like, caramel, or biscuit-like characters. Low-level roasted malt astringency is acceptable when balanced with low to medium malt sweetness. Hop flavor is low to medium-high. Hop bitterness is low to medium. These beers can be made using either ale or lager yeast. The addition of rye to a beer can add a spicy or pumpernickel character to the flavor and finish. Color can also be enhanced and may become more red from the use of rye. The ingredient has come into vogue in recent years in everything from stouts to lagers, but is especially popular with craft brewers in India pale ales. To be considered an example of the style, the grain bill should include sufficient rye such that rye character is evident in the beer.

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]]> British-Style Barley Wine Ale https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/british-style-barley-wine-ale Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:26 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38082 The name “British-style barley wine” represents a group of strong ales that rival the strength and complexity of some of the world’s most celebrated beverages. This brawny, malt-forward beer style is often one of the strongest beer styles on any given beer menu, and showcases a complex melange of toffee and fruit flavors counterbalanced by […]

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]]> The name “British-style barley wine” represents a group of strong ales that rival the strength and complexity of some of the world’s most celebrated beverages. This brawny, malt-forward beer style is often one of the strongest beer styles on any given beer menu, and showcases a complex melange of toffee and fruit flavors counterbalanced by warming alcohol and sturdy hop bitterness. The barley wine beer style is a sipper, enjoyed responsibly, stylishly — preferably in front of a fire in a comfy chair amongst a plethora of leather-bound books.

British-Style Barley Wine Ale

Barley wine beer is a strong ale that leans heavily on malt characteristics for flavor. With a wide color range and characteristically high in alcohol content, this is a style that is often aged, as it evolves well over time. As barley wine beers advance in age, they develop oxidative characteristics, including honey and toffee flavors as well as aromas, darker colors, lessened bitterness and more.

Deconstructing Barley Wine

The origin of the barley wine name brings confusion and its exact origin remains unclear. Strong, wine-strength beers have been around before the name barley wine was first used, but it is often said that barley wine does refer to a wine-strengthened beer. In history, few things are that simple, but regardless of origin, barley wine remains a strong ale with complex malts flavors and sturdy hop bitterness. While no grapes are harmed in the making of this ale, barley wines share wine’s compatibility with food, favoring rich dishes, desserts, the strongest of cheeses and even make for a great after meal digestif.

Tracking Down Your Next Barley Wine Beer

Many craft breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs in the United States brew barley wines for beer lovers to hunt down, and we want to help you find the places to try them. Our “Find a Brewery” map is designed to help you find a location near you to try your first, or next, barley wine beer, and it might be closer to you than you think.

If you enjoy the website and are interested in a convenient way to learn more about barley wine, sign up to have our newsletter delivered directly to your inbox.

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]]> Pumpkin Beer https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/pumpkin-beers Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:26 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38078 Nothing says fall quite like pumpkins and beer, and American craft breweries have done a superb job of combining the two. It’s tough to find anything that hasn’t been “pumpkin spiced,” and beers are no different. Pumpkin flavored beers have caught the attention of craft beer and pumpkin lovers everywhere, partially because the flavors can […]

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]]> Nothing says fall quite like pumpkins and beer, and American craft breweries have done a superb job of combining the two. It’s tough to find anything that hasn’t been “pumpkin spiced,” and beers are no different. Pumpkin flavored beers have caught the attention of craft beer and pumpkin lovers everywhere, partially because the flavors can be implemented in several beer styles. Whether you’re interested in trying pumpkin amber ales, IPAs or pumpkin stouts, there are plenty of options from American craft brewers for you to explore.

Pumpkin Beer

Perhaps the most seasonal of seasonal beers, the pumpkin beer style can be brewed with pumpkin, just pumpkin spices, or even winter squash. Since the fruit does not have much of a taste by itself, many craft brewers have taken to adding spices typically found in pumpkin pie, like cinnamon and clove. However, these flavors should not overpower the beer. Pumpkin can be found in everything from stouts to pale ales and pilsners.

Pumpkin Beer’s Versatility

Pumpkin spice beer is so versatile that it is hard to nail down its particular characteristics. Pumpkin flavored beers can range from relatively light to dark, bitter or malt forward, and can be either sessionable or strong as far as the alcohol content is considered. As you’d expect, the pumpkin beer style pairs well with fall food flavors like roasted turkey and coffee ice cream. Camembert cheese is another decadent beer pairing if you’re pouring a glass of pumpkin flavored beer to enjoy.

Pumpkin spice beers are a very popular seasonal beer style for a reason. American craft breweries everywhere likely have their own version of pumpkin beer you can explore, so get out and try them this fall (sometimes breweries even release them in late summer). If you are a lover of pumpkin ale, we can help you find a craft brewery that might serve one you haven’t tried yet.

Pumpkin Spice Beer Locator

Finding your next favorite pumpkin flavored beer doesn’t have to stop here. Feel free to use our interactive brewery map to find a brewery or brewpub near you that could very well be serving a pumpkin spice beer.

If you enjoy the website and are interested in a convenient way to learn more about pumpkin flavored beers or the breweries that carry them, sign up to have our newsletter delivered directly to your inbox. We can’t send you beer, but we can send you our newsletter, which is almost as good.

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]]> Irish-Style Red Beer https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/irish-style-red Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:26 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38077 Irish red ale is known for its unique malty taste and is on the lower side of the bitterness and alcohol content scales. If you love American craft beer, the Irish red ale beer remains a great style for beer lovers to seek out and appreciate. Irish-Style Red Ale The Irish-style red ale is a […]

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]]> Irish red ale is known for its unique malty taste and is on the lower side of the bitterness and alcohol content scales. If you love American craft beer, the Irish red ale beer remains a great style for beer lovers to seek out and appreciate.

Irish-Style Red Ale

The Irish-style red ale is a balanced beer that uses a moderate amount of kilned malts and roasted barley in the recipe, which gives the beer the color for which it is named. Featuring an approachable hop bitterness which rests on the palate, this typically amber-colored beer is brewed as a lager or an ale, and can often have a medium, candy-like caramel malt sweetness. This style may contain adjuncts such as corn, rice, and sugar, which help dry out the beer’s finish and lessen the body. It also often contains roasted barley, lending low roasted notes, darker color and possible creation of a tan collar of foam on top. With notes of caramel, toffee and sometimes low-level diacetyl (butter), think of the Irish red ale beer style as a cousin to lightly-toasted and buttered bread.

America’s Version of Irish Red Ale Beer

Irish-style red ales are an approachable style for people who are new to craft beer, but are also enjoyed and appreciated by even the most discerning of craft connoisseurs. Don’t let these tasty, sessionable beers be relegated to a once-a-year holiday, Irish style reds can be enjoyed throughout the year in a variety of occasions and with a lot of different food options.

American Craft Breweries Serving Irish Red Ale

It’s no secret that Irish beers have played an influential role in the American craft beer scene, and that’s apparent through the Irish red ale beer. It can be challenging to keep up with all of the Irish beer reinventions, and that is why we’ve created an interactive “Find a Brewery” map. The map will help you find small and independent U.S. craft breweries near you; some of those breweries and brewpubs are likely making variations of red ale beer.

Finding your next favorite Irish red ale beer doesn’t have to stop here. If you enjoy the website and are interested in a convenient way to learn more about Irish red beer, sign up to have our newsletter delivered directly to your inbox. We can’t send you beer, but we can send you our newsletter, which is almost as good.

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]]> Baltic-Style Porter https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/baltic-style-porter Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38061 The Baltic-style Porter is a smooth, cold-fermented and cold-lagered beer brewed with lager yeast. Because of its alcoholic strength, it may include very low to low complex alcohol flavors and/or lager fruitiness such as berries, grapes and plums (but not banana; ale-like fruitiness from warm-temperature fermentation is not appropriate). This style has the malt flavors […]

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]]> The Baltic-style Porter is a smooth, cold-fermented and cold-lagered beer brewed with lager yeast. Because of its alcoholic strength, it may include very low to low complex alcohol flavors and/or lager fruitiness such as berries, grapes and plums (but not banana; ale-like fruitiness from warm-temperature fermentation is not appropriate). This style has the malt flavors of a brown porter and the roast of a schwarzbier, but is bigger in alcohol and body.

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]]> Belgian-Style Blonde Ale https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/belgian-style-blonde-ale Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38062 The Belgian-style blonde ale is typically easy-drinking, with a low but pleasing hop bitterness. This is a light- to medium-bodied ale, with a low malt aroma that has a spiced and sometimes fruity-ester character. Sugar is sometimes added to lighten the perceived body. This style is medium in sweetness and not as bitter as Belgian-style […]

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]]> The Belgian-style blonde ale is typically easy-drinking, with a low but pleasing hop bitterness. This is a light- to medium-bodied ale, with a low malt aroma that has a spiced and sometimes fruity-ester character. Sugar is sometimes added to lighten the perceived body. This style is medium in sweetness and not as bitter as Belgian-style tripels or golden strong ales. It is usually brilliantly clear. The overall impression is balance between light sweetness, spice and low to medium fruity ester flavors.

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]]> American-Style Wheat Wine Ale https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/american-style-wheat-wine-ale Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38060 Part of the “strong ale” category, the American-Style Wheat Wine Ale is not derived from grapes as its name might suggest. Made with at least 50 percent wheat malt, this full-bodied beer features bready and candy flavors, and finishes with a great deal of malty sweetness. These beers may be oak-aged and sometimes have small […]

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]]> Part of the “strong ale” category, the American-Style Wheat Wine Ale is not derived from grapes as its name might suggest. Made with at least 50 percent wheat malt, this full-bodied beer features bready and candy flavors, and finishes with a great deal of malty sweetness. These beers may be oak-aged and sometimes have small amounts of darker malts added.

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]]> Chocolate Beer https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/chocolate-beer Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38067 Few flavors are as universally celebrated as chocolate. From ancient civilizations who drank fermented chocolate to rich, decadent and refined chocolate desserts, the cultural significance of chocolate cannot be understated. Like chocolate, beer too is a celebrated, versatile tradition that spans the globe. American craft brewers have embraced the combination of both with a variety […]

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]]> Few flavors are as universally celebrated as chocolate. From ancient civilizations who drank fermented chocolate to rich, decadent and refined chocolate desserts, the cultural significance of chocolate cannot be understated. Like chocolate, beer too is a celebrated, versatile tradition that spans the globe. American craft brewers have embraced the combination of both with a variety of different approaches and applications to create chocolate flavored beers. While many beers showcase chocolatey flavors without actually having chocolate as an ingredient, chocolate beers use the ingredient itself to offer a uniquely balanced beer experience that can be appreciated by beer connoisseurs and those with sweet tooths alike.

Chocolate Beer

Chocolate beer can be an ale or lager that benefits from the addition of any type of chocolate or cocoa. Traditionally added to porters, stouts and brown ales, where the grain bill better complements the confectionery ingredient, it can be added to other styles as well. Chocolate character can range from subtle to overt, but any chocolate beer is generally expected to offer some balance between beer and bon-bon. The style can vary greatly in approach as well as flavor profile depending on the brewer.

Chocolate Flavored Beer in America

Known for innovation and pushing boundaries, craft brewers have never met an ingredient they didn’t like, or at least an ingredient they didn’t believe could be expressed in a beer. Chocolate flavored beers offer beer lovers a chance to taste just how versatile craft brewers can be. The use of chocolate in chocolate beers offers yet another example of craft beers culinary compatibility, whether as a pairing or show-stopping course all in itself, a well-crafted chocolate flavored beer is a game changer even for those who don’t generally gravitate towards beer.

While stouts and porters are the most complementary styles to embrace the addition of chocolate, chocolate beers need not stick to the script. Chocolate can be added to all types of beer styles, even beers as light as pale ales. The key for any flavored beer is that the ingredients and flavors it presents are balanced well with the base style of beer. Chocolate flavored beer may seem like an odd concept, but any beer or chocolate lover owes it to themself to give chocolate beer a try.

Helping You Find Your Next Chocolate Flavored Beer

On the hunt for an American craft brewer that offers a chocolate flavored beer? We want to help you find your first or new favorite. Whether you have a craft beer or chocolate fascination, our “Find a Brewery” map is designed to meet your needs.

Finding your first or next favorite beer doesn’t have to stop here. If you are interested in a convenient way to learn more about chocolate beer, or any other kind of beer, sign up to have our newsletter delivered directly to your inbox.

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]]> Belgian-Style Flanders https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/belgian-style-flanders Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38063 The Belgian-style Flanders is an ale with character and balance, thanks to lactic sourness and acetic acid. Cherry-like flavors are acceptable, as is malt sweetness that can lend bitterness and a cocoa-like character. Oak or other wood-like flavors may be present, even if the beer was not aged in barrels. Overall, the style is characterized […]

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]]> The Belgian-style Flanders is an ale with character and balance, thanks to lactic sourness and acetic acid. Cherry-like flavors are acceptable, as is malt sweetness that can lend bitterness and a cocoa-like character. Oak or other wood-like flavors may be present, even if the beer was not aged in barrels. Overall, the style is characterized by slight to strong lactic sourness, and Flanders reds sometimes include a balanced degree of acetic acid. Brettanomyces-produced flavors may be absent or very low. This style is a marvel in flavor complexity, combining malt, yeast, microorganisms, acidity and low astringency from barrel aging.

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]]> Belgian-Style Fruit Lambic https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/belgian-style-fruit-lambic Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38064 Often known as cassis, framboise, kriek, or peche, a fruit lambic takes on the color and flavor of the fruit it is brewed with. It can be dry or sweet, clear or cloudy, depending on the ingredients. Notes of Brettanomyces yeast are often present at varied levels. Sourness is an important part of the flavor […]

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]]> Often known as cassis, framboise, kriek, or peche, a fruit lambic takes on the color and flavor of the fruit it is brewed with. It can be dry or sweet, clear or cloudy, depending on the ingredients. Notes of Brettanomyces yeast are often present at varied levels. Sourness is an important part of the flavor profile, though sweetness from fruit may diminish the perceived intensity. These flavored lambic beers may be very dry or mildly sweet.

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]]> Berliner-Style Weisse https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/berliner-style-weisse Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38065 Low in alcohol, refreshingly tart, and often served with a flavored syrup like Woodruff or raspberry, the Berliner-style Weisse presents a harmony between yeast and lactic acid. These beers are very pale in color, and may be cloudy as they are often unfiltered. Hops are not a feature of this style, but these beers often […]

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]]> Low in alcohol, refreshingly tart, and often served with a flavored syrup like Woodruff or raspberry, the Berliner-style Weisse presents a harmony between yeast and lactic acid. These beers are very pale in color, and may be cloudy as they are often unfiltered. Hops are not a feature of this style, but these beers often do showcase esters. Traditional versions often showcase Brettanomyces yeast. Growing in popularity in the U.S., where many brewers are now adding traditional and exotic fruits to the recipe, resulting in flavorful finishes with striking, colorful hues. These beers are incredible when pairing. Bitterness, alcohol and residual sugar are very low, allowing the beer’s acidity, white bread and graham cracker malt flavors to shine. Carbonation is very high, adding to the refreshment factor this style delivers. Many examples of this style contain no hops and thus no bitterness at all.

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]]> German-Style Dunkelweizen https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/german-style-dunkelweizen Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38072 The German-style Dunkelweizen can be considered a cross between a German-style dunkel and a hefeweizen. Distinguished by its sweet maltiness and chocolate-like character, it can also have banana and clove (and occasionally vanilla or bubblegum) esters from weizen ale yeast.

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]]> The German-style Dunkelweizen can be considered a cross between a German-style dunkel and a hefeweizen. Distinguished by its sweet maltiness and chocolate-like character, it can also have banana and clove (and occasionally vanilla or bubblegum) esters from weizen ale yeast.

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]]> German-Style Helles https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/german-style-helles Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38073 A beer for beer lovers, the German-style helles is a malt accented lager beer that balances a pleasant malt sweetness and body with floral Noble hops and restrained bitterness. The helles is a masterclass in restraint, subtly and drinkability which makes it an enduring style for true beer lovers and an elusive style for craft […]

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]]> A beer for beer lovers, the German-style helles is a malt accented lager beer that balances a pleasant malt sweetness and body with floral Noble hops and restrained bitterness. The helles is a masterclass in restraint, subtly and drinkability which makes it an enduring style for true beer lovers and an elusive style for craft brewers to recreate. The German helles reminds beer lovers that the simple things in life are usually the most rewarding and worth pursuing.

German-Style Helles

“Helles” means “pale in color,” as these beers are often golden. The German-style helles lager is a bit rounder or fuller-bodied than light lager and even all-malt pilsners. Helles lager beers offer a touch of sweetness that balance a measurable addition of spicy German hop flavor and light bitterness. The malt character is soft and bready, making it a terrific complement to light dishes such as salad or fresh shellfish, like clams. Clean and crisp, this is a refreshing beer with substance. Low levels of yeast-produced sulfur aromas and flavors may be common.

A Classic German Beer

While the German helles is highly versatile for pairing with food, helles lager is designed for refreshment and makes for the ideal beer on a hot day. Today, small and independent craft brewers offer their own takes on this classic German beer, many following the German tradition exactly, including German malts, spicy German hops and expertly controlled fermentation, offering a balanced yet subtly sweet lager beer. Others have added their own American twist on the helles variety by adding American hops and making this lager beer available in aluminum cans so beer lovers can enjoy this style while out and about. If you have not had the pleasure of tasting and appreciating this beer brewed for beer lovers, do yourself a favor and seek out a brewery near you that offers the style as a taproom option. You won’t be sorry.

Helping You Find Your New Favorite German Helles

We’ve assembled an interactive “Find a Brewery” map to help you keep track of all of the breweries and brewpubs near you, and some of those craft breweries are likely making helles beer. By allowing the map to use your specific location, searching by state or searching for a specific brewery, we want to help you find your next favorite craft beer, which could be a helles beer.

If you enjoy the website and are interested in a convenient way to learn more about German beer, sign up to have our newsletter delivered directly to your inbox.

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]]> American Stout https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/american-stout Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38059 American stout beer is perhaps one of the most identifiable creations of the American beer world. Stout beer is about as dark of an American beer as can be, and has a very noticeable of appearance, aroma and flavor. As one of the thicker, darker American beers on the craft beer scene, American stout beer […]

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]]> American stout beer is perhaps one of the most identifiable creations of the American beer world. Stout beer is about as dark of an American beer as can be, and has a very noticeable of appearance, aroma and flavor. As one of the thicker, darker American beers on the craft beer scene, American stout beer is perfect for the colder seasons.

American Stout

Strikingly bold and undeniably beautiful, the American stout beer style blends generous amounts of dark malts with American hops to offer an adventurous experience that is unmatched by other styles of beer. Are you afraid of the dark? When it comes to American stout, don’t be. Allow your senses to run wild with this deceivingly sophisticated take on a European staple.

Stout Beer in America

Like many other beer styles that have become prized by American brewers and beer lovers alike, American stout is a distinct variant of a European stout beer counterpart. True to style, American stouts showcase generous quantities of the American hops fans have come to expect, and much like other stout beer types, American stout can be enjoyed year-round but is commonly considered a beer for the fall or winter months. The stout is a terrific companion to bold, hearty foods. Look for hearty game meats, as well as soups and strong cheeses to be particularly suitable for pairing for American stouts, in addition to a variety of after-dinner desserts.

Finding Your Next American Stout Beer

Reading about American stout is great, but we encourage you to seek out the style at a local brewery. Take advantage of our “Find a Brewery” map to discover a small and independent brewery near you to try your first, or next, American stout.

If you enjoy the website and are interested in a convenient way to learn more about American beer, sign up to have our newsletter delivered directly to your inbox.

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]]> American Imperial Red Ale https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/american-imperial-red-ale Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38058 The use of American hops in the American imperial red ale lends to the perception of medium hop bitterness, flavor and aroma. Coupled with a solid malt profile, this should be a beer with balance between hop bitterness and malt sweetness. This is another example of modern American brewers taking an established style and boosting […]

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]]> The use of American hops in the American imperial red ale lends to the perception of medium hop bitterness, flavor and aroma. Coupled with a solid malt profile, this should be a beer with balance between hop bitterness and malt sweetness. This is another example of modern American brewers taking an established style and boosting the flavor. California brewers are credited with creating this innovative style.

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]]> American Imperial Porter https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/american-imperial-porter Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38057 Definitively American, the imperial porter should have no roasted barley flavors or strong burnt/black malt character. Medium caramel and cocoa-like sweetness is present, with complementing hop character and malt-derived sweetness.

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]]> Definitively American, the imperial porter should have no roasted barley flavors or strong burnt/black malt character. Medium caramel and cocoa-like sweetness is present, with complementing hop character and malt-derived sweetness.

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]]> Coffee Beer https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/coffee-beer Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38068 If you had to combine two beverages that Americans love, you would have coffee beer. Craft breweries across the United States have zealously embraced coffee flavored beer. The creations that have resulted from experimenting with the combination of some of the oldest beverages in the world have caught the attention of craft beer lovers everywhere. […]

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]]> If you had to combine two beverages that Americans love, you would have coffee beer. Craft breweries across the United States have zealously embraced coffee flavored beer. The creations that have resulted from experimenting with the combination of some of the oldest beverages in the world have caught the attention of craft beer lovers everywhere.

Coffee Beer

Coffee beer can be either a lager beer or an ale beer, with coffee added to boost flavor. While stouts and porters are popular base styles for coffee beer, many craft breweries are experimenting with other styles, like cream ales and India pale ales. Brewers may steep the beans in either water or beer to impart java flavor while taking care to avoid the addition of too much acidity. As with any beer, the addition of an ingredient can have a drastic effect on the flavor — but striking a balance is often the goal of brewers.

Warming Up with Coffee Beer

Coffee is a versatile ingredient in beer, and lends a smooth roasted flavor to just about any style, from stouts and porters to pale ales and even sour beers. You can look to pair coffee flavored beers with a wide variety of different foods. Desserts might be an obvious choice, after all, — who wouldn’t enjoy a piece of pecan pie cheesecake alongside a smooth, rich coffee oatmeal stout? Despite how well it pairs with sweeter dishes, there is no reason a coffee beer couldn’t be an excellent companion to a charcoal grilled rib-eye steak at your next cookout. This beer style also makes a nice partner when paired with aged semi-hard cheeses when you’re entertaining.

Pointing You in the Direction of Coffee Flavored Beer

Finding your next favorite beer doesn’t have to stop here. CraftBeer.com’s “Find a Brewery” map is designed to help you find small and independent craft breweries near you. Giving you the option to search for breweries by location, desired brewery name, or state, finding breweries and brewpubs closest to your location could lead you to your next favorite beer, which could be a coffee flavored beer.

If you enjoy the website and are interested in a convenient way to learn more about coffee flavored beer, which foods pair best with these beers, or any other beer style, sign up to have our newsletter delivered directly to your inbox.

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]]> Blonde Ale https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/blonde-ale Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38066 One of the most approachable styles, a golden or blonde ale is an easy-drinking beer that is visually appealing and has no particularly dominating malt or hop characteristics. Rounded and smooth, it is an American classic known for its simplicity. Sometimes referred to as “golden ale.” These beers can have honey, spices and fruit added, […]

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]]> One of the most approachable styles, a golden or blonde ale is an easy-drinking beer that is visually appealing and has no particularly dominating malt or hop characteristics. Rounded and smooth, it is an American classic known for its simplicity. Sometimes referred to as “golden ale.” These beers can have honey, spices and fruit added, and may be fermented with lager or ale yeast.

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]]> European-Style Export https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/european-style-export Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38070 Sometimes referred to as a “Dortmunder export,” the European-Style Export has the malt-forward flavor and sweetness of a German-style helles, but the bitter base of a German-style pilsener. This lager is all about balance, with medium hop character and firm but low malt sweetness. Look for toasted malt flavors and spicy floral hop aromas.

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]]> Sometimes referred to as a “Dortmunder export,” the European-Style Export has the malt-forward flavor and sweetness of a German-style helles, but the bitter base of a German-style pilsener. This lager is all about balance, with medium hop character and firm but low malt sweetness. Look for toasted malt flavors and spicy floral hop aromas.

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]]> Herb and Spice Beer https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/herb-and-spice-beer Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38075 An herb and spice beer is a lager or ale that contains flavors derived from flowers, roots, seeds or certain fruits or vegetables. Typically the hop character is low, allowing the added ingredient to shine through. The appearance, mouthfeel and aromas vary depending on the herb or spice used. This beer style encompasses innovative examples […]

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]]> An herb and spice beer is a lager or ale that contains flavors derived from flowers, roots, seeds or certain fruits or vegetables. Typically the hop character is low, allowing the added ingredient to shine through. The appearance, mouthfeel and aromas vary depending on the herb or spice used. This beer style encompasses innovative examples as well as traditional holiday and winter ales.

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]]> Honey Beer https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/honey-beer Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38076 Both lagers and ales can be brewed with honey. Some brewers will choose to experiment with ingredients, while others will add honey to traditional styles. Overall the character of honey should be evident but not totally overwhelming. A wide variety of honey beers are available. U.S. brewers may add honey to the boil kettle (as […]

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]]> Both lagers and ales can be brewed with honey. Some brewers will choose to experiment with ingredients, while others will add honey to traditional styles. Overall the character of honey should be evident but not totally overwhelming. A wide variety of honey beers are available. U.S. brewers may add honey to the boil kettle (as a sugar source) or post-boil (to preserve more volatile aromatics).

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]]> German-Style Altbier https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/german-style-brownaltbier Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38071 Originally from the Düsseldorf area of Germany, the German-Style Altbier strikes a balance between hop and malt flavors and aromas, but can have low fruity esters and some peppery and floral hop aromas. Before Germany had lager beer, it had ales. Alt, meaning “old,” pays homage to one rebel region in Germany which did not […]

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]]> Originally from the Düsseldorf area of Germany, the German-Style Altbier strikes a balance between hop and malt flavors and aromas, but can have low fruity esters and some peppery and floral hop aromas. Before Germany had lager beer, it had ales. Alt, meaning “old,” pays homage to one rebel region in Germany which did not lean into lagering. U.S. producers celebrate the ale revolution beautifully with this top-fermented German beer style.

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]]> English-Style Old Ale https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/english-style-old-ale Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38069 A distinctive quality of these ales is that their yeast undergoes an aging process (often for years) in bulk storage or through bottle conditioning, which contributes to a rich, wine-like and often sweet oxidation character. Old ales are copper-red to very dark in color. Complex estery character may emerge.

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]]> A distinctive quality of these ales is that their yeast undergoes an aging process (often for years) in bulk storage or through bottle conditioning, which contributes to a rich, wine-like and often sweet oxidation character. Old ales are copper-red to very dark in color. Complex estery character may emerge.

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]]> German-Style Weizenbock https://www.craftbeer.com/styles/german-style-weizenbock Thu, 14 Aug 2014 21:56:22 +0000 http://www.craftbeer.com/?post_type=styles&p=38074 The German-style Weizenbock is a wheat version of a German-style bock, or a bigger and beefier dunkelweizen. Malt mellanoidins and weizen ale yeast are the star ingredients. If served with yeast, the appearance may appropriately be very cloudy. With flavors of bready malt and dark fruits like plum, raisin, and grape, this style is low […]

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]]> The German-style Weizenbock is a wheat version of a German-style bock, or a bigger and beefier dunkelweizen. Malt mellanoidins and weizen ale yeast are the star ingredients. If served with yeast, the appearance may appropriately be very cloudy. With flavors of bready malt and dark fruits like plum, raisin, and grape, this style is low on bitterness and high on carbonation. Balanced clove-like phenols and fruity, banana-like esters produce a well-rounded aroma.

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