Exploring the Best Beers I've Ever Had: A Personal Journey
From the moment I first tasted the OH-J from Lone Pine Brewing in Portland, ME, I knew I had discovered something truly remarkable. This New England IPA (NEIPA) is off the charts good and stands among the world-class NEIPAs I’ve had the pleasure to taste. Another standout is the Pineapple-Mango IPA from the Brewing Projekt in River Falls, WI, which brings a refreshing twist with its tropical flavors.
For those who enjoy a rich, robust taste, there are two stouts that particularly catch my fancy. Firstly, there’s Stout Hearted made by Welcome - Yeovil Ales Brewery, and then there’s the 100 Oysters Stout from London Brewing Co. These stouts are a true delight, and I savor them every time I have the opportunity. I stick to real ales and craft beers, as mass-produced beers often make me unwell, with the exception of Guinness, which I can handle.
Rochefort Beer from Belgium
Rochefort beer, a classic from Belgium, is another favorite of mine. A memorable experience was when I had a pint of Green King Abbott in the first pub I found after heading west from Heathrow airport. Having lived in Australia for five years, this was the first true English pint I had in that time, and it was quite the revelation.
D. G. Yuengling: America’s Oldest Brewery
What truly tops my list of remarkable beers is D. G. Yuengling. It’s an absolute sensation, often described as “Champagne masquerading as beer.” Yuengling is not just any brewery; it’s the oldest family-owned brewery in the country, established in 1829 in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. Yuengling has produced about 2.8 million barrels annually and is one of the largest breweries by volume in the United States. The beer has a long and storied history, with even Abraham Lincoln known to have enjoyed it during the Civil War.
Currently, Yuengling is primarily available in states east of the Mississippi, which can be a challenge for those who want to enjoy it. There are rumors, however, that they might consider expanding to new markets, including Texas. Whether or not this comes to fruition, I remain hopeful and would shed a tear if it were to happen. The thirst-quenching, rich, and historic brew is indeed a nectar worthy of deities.
OH-J from Lone Pine Brewing
OH-J from Lone Pine Brewing in Portland, ME, is outstanding. This beer is impossible to forget, with its off-the-charts deliciousness and world-class NEIPA status.
Pineapple-Mango IPA from the Brewing Projekt
The Pineapple-Mango IPA from the Brewing Projekt in River Falls, WI, is another standout. Its combination of tropical flavors makes it both refreshing and complex.
Stout Hearted from Welcome - Yeovil Ales Brewery
Stout Hearted from Welcome - Yeovil Ales Brewery is a robust and satisfying stout that stands out in the world of craft beers. I enjoy it immensely whenever I get the chance to taste it.
100 Oysters Stout from London Brewing Co
Another incredible stout is 100 Oysters Stout from London Brewing Co. This beer brings a unique twist to the traditional stout style and is a true testament to the craftsmanship of craft beer.
Green King Abbott
Green King Abbott, a traditional English stout, provided a nostalgic and memorable experience when I first tried it in a Bristol pub called The Bag O Nails in Hotwells, Bristol. It marked the end of my five-year wait for a true English pint and was incredibly refreshing.
D. G. Yuengling
D. G. Yuengling, the oldest operating brewing company in the United States, is a historic brewery that produces a unique style of beer. With its rich flavor, family-owned history, and links to historical figures, it is truly a remarkable brew. I highly recommend giving it a try if you get the chance.