Exploring the World of Beer Anheuser-Busch Doesn’t Craft
If you’re looking to expand your beer palate beyond the ubiquitous Anheuser-Busch products that dominate the shelves of your local grocery store, you’re in luck. There’s a whole world of beer out there, waiting to be discovered. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the lesser-known, but equally delicious, beers that Anheuser-Busch doesn’t craft.
What Makes a Good Beer?
Before we dive into the world of beer, it’s important to remember what makes a good beer. A good beer should have a balance of flavors, with a nice mix of maltiness, hoppiness, and complexity. It should also have a clean finish, without any lingering aftertaste or overpowering flavors.
Craft Beers vs. Macro Beers
When it comes to beer, there are generally two categories: craft beers and macro beers. Macro beers, such as Anheuser-Busch’s Bud Light and Miller Lite, are produced in large quantities by mega-breweries. Craft beers, on the other hand, are produced in smaller batches by independent breweries and tend to have more unique flavors and styles.
IPA
One of the most popular styles of craft beer is the IPA, or India Pale Ale. IPAs tend to be hop-forward, with a bitterness that can range from mild to intense. They often have a floral or citrusy aroma and can be paired with spicy foods or grilled meats. Some popular IPAs to try include Sierra Nevada’s Torpedo Extra IPA and Dogfish Head’s 60 Minute IPA.
Stout
Another popular style of craft beer is the stout. Stouts tend to be dark and rich, with a creamy mouthfeel and flavors of chocolate, coffee, and roasted malt. They’re perfect for sipping on a chilly evening or pairing with a dessert. Some popular stouts to try include Guinness Draught and Brooklyn Brewery’s Black Chocolate Stout.
Sour
If you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to try a sour beer. Sour beers have a tartness that can range from mildly sour to mouth-puckeringly tart. They often have fruity flavors, like cherry or raspberry, and can be paired with cheese or seafood. Some popular sour beers to try include New Belgium’s La Folie and Russian River’s Supplication.
Belgian
If you’re looking for something with a little more complexity, you might want to try a Belgian beer. Belgian beers tend to be spicy, fruity, and complex, with flavors of clove, banana, and coriander. They’re often paired with rich, hearty dishes like stews or roasted meats. Some popular Belgian beers to try include Chimay Blue and Delirium Tremens.
Conclusion
While Anheuser-Busch may dominate the beer market in the United States, there are a ton of other delicious beers out there waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a fan of IPAs, stouts, sours, or Belgian beers, there’s something out there for everyone. So next time you’re looking for something to drink, skip the Bud Light and try something new.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a craft beer?
A craft beer is a beer that is produced in small batches by an independent brewery. They tend to have more unique flavors and styles than mass-produced macro beers.
What is an IPA?
An IPA, or India Pale Ale, is a style of beer that is characterized by its hop-forward flavor. They often have a floral or citrusy aroma and can be paired with spicy foods or grilled meats.
What is a sour beer?
A sour beer is a beer that has a tartness to it, ranging from mildly sour to incredibly tart. They often have fruity flavors, like cherry or raspberry, and can be paired with cheese or seafood.
What is a Belgian beer?
A Belgian beer is a beer that is brewed in Belgium and tends to be spicy, fruity, and complex. They’re often paired with rich, hearty dishes like stews or roasted meats.