Craft beer culture in America has exploded over the past few decades, with breweries across the nation producing an impressive array of unique and flavorful brews. From hoppy IPAs to smooth ales, there’s something for every beer enthusiast to enjoy. In this post, we’ll explore the top 10 beers in America that have captured the hearts and palates of beer lovers nationwide.
Sam Adams
Samuel Adams, often referred to simply as Sam “Sammy” Adams, holds a special place in American beer history. Founded in 1984 in Boston, Massachusetts, by Jim Koch, Sam Adams played a pivotal role in the craft beer renaissance. Their flagship beer, Samuel Adams Boston Lager, is a classic Vienna-style lager known for its balanced malt sweetness and crisp hop bitterness.
This beer holds a fond place from my two years living and working in New England, and visiting their brewery in Boston, Mass.
Harpoon IPA
Harpoon Brewery, also based in Boston, is known for its innovative and flavorful beers. One of their standout offerings is the Harpoon IPA. This India Pale Ale is brewed with a blend of hops from around the world, resulting in a bold and citrusy flavor profile with a refreshing finish that leaves you craving another sip.
I enjoyed visiting the Harpoon brewery in Vermont after and afternoon of dog sledding for my 37th birthday.
Lagunitas IPA
Originating in Petaluma, California, Lagunitas Brewing Company has gained a loyal following for its boundary-pushing beers. Their Lagunitas IPA is a quintessential American IPA, bursting with hoppy aromas and a robust bitterness balanced by a malty backbone. It’s no surprise that this beer has become a staple in the craft beer scene.
A couple of visits to the very chill and cool brewery in Northern California cemented the Lagunitas IPAs as a favourite, and maybe a Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ ale at a B’Dubs.
Mother Earth Cali Cream Ale
Hailing from Vista, California, Mother Earth Brew Co. has been crafting exceptional beers since 2008. Their Cali Cream Ale puts a unique spin on a classic style, combining the smoothness of a cream ale with a hint of vanilla for a delightful and creamy drinking experience. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a lighter yet flavorful beer.
Quickly a favourite while working in Orange County California in 2017/18 – enjoyed the brewery on the way to San Diego and a tall beer at the the Brea brewhouse.
Kona Big Wave
Transport yourself to the sunny shores of Hawaii with Kona Brewing Company’s Big Wave Golden Ale. Brewed in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, this beer captures the essence of island living with its bright and refreshing taste. Featuring a smooth malt backbone and a touch of citrus hops, Big Wave is like a sip of paradise in a glass.
Ballast Point Sculpin IPA
San Diego-based Ballast Point Brewing Company is renowned for its innovative and flavorful beers, and the Sculpin IPA is no exception. This award-winning IPA is characterized by its bold hop aroma and flavor, featuring notes of grapefruit, peach, mango, and pine. With its balanced bitterness and crisp finish, it’s a true standout in the IPA category.
Goose Island IPA
Chicago’s Goose Island Beer Co. has been brewing quality beers since 1988, and their Goose IPA is a testament to their commitment to excellence. This English-style IPA boasts a floral and citrusy hop profile, complemented by a caramel malt sweetness. It’s a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy.
Allagash White
Allagash Brewing Company, located in Portland, Maine, is renowned for its Belgian-style beers, and Allagash White is a shining example of their craftsmanship. Brewed with a blend of wheat, spices, and a unique yeast strain, this Belgian-style wheat beer offers complex flavors of citrus, coriander, and clove, with a smooth and refreshing finish.
Old Mecklenburg Copper
Charlotte, North Carolina’s Old Mecklenburg Brewery has been producing German-inspired beers since 2009, and their Copper Altbier is a standout offering. This traditional German-style ale features a rich malt character with notes of caramel and toast, balanced by a subtle hop bitterness. It’s a true taste of Old World brewing tradition in the heart of the American South.
These top 10 beers represent the pinnacle of American brewing innovation and craftsmanship. Whether you prefer hop-forward IPAs, smooth ales, or unique specialty brews, there’s something on this list to satisfy every beer lover’s palate. So, the next time you’re craving a cold one, why not reach for one of these exceptional brews and toast to the vibrant and diverse world of American craft beer. Cheers!
