Intro to Lagers: A Guide for Craft Beer Lovers
When it comes to the beer world, people often talk about ales and IPAs more frequently. However, lagers are a different breed of beverages that have their own unique flavor profile. They’re crisper, lighter, and typically less bitter than their ale counterparts. For craft beer lovers looking for a new experience, here is a list of 10 best lagers to try.
1. Brooklyn Lager
Brooklyn Brewery‘s flagship offering is a quintessential American lager that blends the traditional brewing methods with modern, creative approaches. With a golden hue and malty aroma, this beer has a smooth, full-bodied taste that makes it a fantastic introduction to the lager realm.
2. Allagash White
Allagash Brewing Company‘s take on a Belgian witbier is an excellent lager with hints of coriander and orange peel that give it a delightful, citrusy taste. This beer has a unique spice blend, making for a refreshingly different drinking experience.
3. Victory Prima Pils
Victory Brewing Company‘s Czech-style pilsner is a classic example of the lager category. Its golden color and crisp, clean taste make it an easy-to-drink option for beer enthusiasts looking to explore something new. The hoppy notes provide a nice balance to the malty malt base.
4. Ballast Point Tongue Buckler
Ballast Point Brewing Company‘s IPA-inspired lager is an interesting mix of both worlds, combining the lightness of a lager with the bold flavor profile of an India Pale Ale. It has a fruity aroma and a full-bodied taste, making it a unique choice for those seeking something different.
5. Oskar Blues Dale’s Pale Ale
Oskar Blues Brewery‘s Dale’s Pale Ale is a hoppy American pale lager that bridges the gap between an IPA and a traditional lager. The beer has a rich, amber color with a floral and citrusy aroma, making it both refreshing and satisfying.
6. Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery‘s take on an IPA is a well-balanced beer that showcases the best of both worlds – it has the bold hoppy flavor of an IPA combined with the crisp, easy-drinking nature of a lager. This versatile option offers a unique taste experience for craft beer lovers.
7. Founders All Day IPA
Founders Brewing Company‘s approach to an IPA is another refreshing take on the style, offering a light-bodied beer with tropical fruit flavors that are easy to drink and perfect for enjoying throughout the day.
8. Stone Delicious IPA
Stone Brewing Company‘s take on a session IPA is a smooth, well-balanced beer with an invitingly fruity aroma and hints of grapefruit and tropical fruits. The brewery’s expertise in crafting great beers ensures that this lager will leave you wanting more.
9. Avery Ellie’s Brown Ale
Avery Brewing Company‘s brown ale is a perfect example of a well-crafted lager, featuring notes of caramel and chocolate with a hint of toffee. This full-flavored beer has a smooth finish that makes it an ideal companion for any occasion.
10. Deschutes Inversion IPA
Deschutes Brewery‘s take on the IPA style is a deliciously balanced and approachable beer with a light body, citrusy aroma, and a subtle balance of bitter and sweet flavors. This versatile lager is perfect for those who are new to craft beers or seasoned connoisseurs alike.
Conclusion
Lagers have their place in the world of beer, offering a different flavor profile than ales and IPAs. There’s a wide range of options out there for craft beer lovers looking to explore this category. From the classic Brooklyn Lager to modern takes like Victory Prima Pils and Ballast Point Tongue Buckler, each of these 10 best lagers provides a unique experience that will expand your beer knowledge and appreciation.
About the Author
The author is a passionate craft beer enthusiast with a penchant for trying new brews and sharing their experiences. With years of exploration in the world of lagers, they have selected these 10 best options to guide fellow beer lovers on their journey of discovery.