Craft beer is a world of endless flavors and aromas, each style offering something unique. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, the diversity in beer styles is what makes the craft beer community so vibrant. Let’s dive deeper into the popular craft beer styles, breaking down what makes each one special.
1. IPA (India Pale Ale)
Let’s start with one of the most popular craft beer styles: the IPA. This beer is all about the hops. You’ll often find bold, bitter flavors and fruity aromas. In a West Coast IPA, expect a dry, crisp finish with strong pine and citrus notes. On the other hand, a New England IPA (NEIPA) offers a juicy, hazy pour with tropical fruit aromas and a smooth mouthfeel. It’s less bitter but packed with flavor. Craft beer enthusiasts love IPAs for their versatility and complexity.
2. Pilsner
For something lighter, look to the pilsner. Originating in the Czech Republic, this beer is crisp, clean, and refreshing. It’s got a slightly hoppy, floral character that makes it incredibly easy to drink. German Pilsners are more bitter, while Czech Pilsners lean sweeter. Perfect for a hot day, pilsners are the go-to for craft beer drinkers who want a simple, refreshing beer.
3. Stout
Dark, rich, and full of flavor—stouts are for those who love deep, roasted notes in their beer. You’ll often taste coffee, chocolate, and toasted malt. Dry Irish Stouts (think Guinness) have a smooth, creamy mouthfeel with a dry finish. For something bolder, try an Imperial Stout—higher in alcohol with intense flavors of dark chocolate, molasses, and sometimes even a hint of smoke.
4. Porter
Similar to stouts but usually lighter in body, porters are another dark beer option. They have the same roasted malt flavors but with more subtlety. You might find hints of caramel, nuts, or even a light smokiness. Porters are perfect if you want a dark beer that’s rich but not too heavy.
5. Saison
Saisons are farmhouse ales, often brewed in the summer months. They are light, dry, and effervescent, with fruity and spicy flavors. You’ll often taste hints of citrus, black pepper, and even earthy tones. Belgian saisons are known for their yeast-driven flavors, making them both refreshing and complex. Saisons are perfect for those who like something funky yet easy-drinking.
6. Wheat Beer
Wheat beers are hazy, smooth, and perfect for summer. The high wheat content in the malt bill gives them a creamy texture. Hefeweizens, a classic German wheat beer, are famous for their banana and clove flavors, while Belgian Witbiers are often spiced with coriander and orange peel. These beers are light, refreshing, and full of subtle flavors.
7. Sour Beer
Sour beers are for those who like a little pucker in their pint. These beers are intentionally tart and refreshing. You’ll find styles like Berliner Weisse, which is light and lemony, and Gose, a slightly salty and tart brew. Many sour beers are aged with fruit, which adds even more complexity. Sours are perfect for hot days or when you want something bold and tangy.
8. Lager
Lagers are smooth and clean, offering an easy-drinking experience. While pilsners are a type of lager, the style includes other options like Vienna Lager, which is maltier and amber in color, and Doppelbock, a strong, rich lager. These beers are great for people who enjoy a more straightforward, refreshing brew without the intense bitterness of an IPA.
9. Amber Ale
Amber ales are known for their balance. You’ll taste a mix of malt sweetness and hop bitterness, often with flavors of caramel, toffee, or biscuit. Amber ales are medium-bodied and easy to drink, making them a great choice for those who want a flavorful beer that isn’t too heavy or too light.
10. Belgian Dubbel
The Belgian Dubbel is a dark, malty ale with fruity yeast flavors. You’ll find notes of raisins, figs, and dark fruits. Dubbels are smooth, slightly sweet, and often have a warming alcohol presence. If you enjoy complex beers with a rich malt profile, the Belgian Dubbel is for you.
Each beer style offers something unique—whether you love the bold bitterness of an IPA, the rich depth of a stout, or the crisp refreshment of a pilsner. Understanding the basics of these popular craft beer styles helps you appreciate every pint. So, the next time you pick up a craft beer, take a moment to savor the flavors and aromas that make each style special.
