Exploring the Best Craft Beers: An Odyssey Beyond Samuel Adams
The question of 'What is the best craft beer excluding Samuel Adams?' may seem absurd at first glance. With over 6,200 craft breweries in the United States, the diversity and quality of beer available are immense. It's unreasonable to expect anyone to have tasted every single craft beer and declare a sole "best" choice. After all, why limit your beer experience to just one?
The Myth of Samuel Adams as a Craft Brewery
Samuel Adams is a prominent craft beer brand, brewed by the Boston Beer Company. However, its status as a craft brewery is somewhat debatable. According to the official definition, a brewery must produce 65% or less of its total alcohol beverage sales volume from beer to be classified as a craft brewery. Currently, Samuel Adams brews around 65% of its products, which is just above the threshold. This figure used to be around 90% in 2010, making it more clearly a craft brewery back then.
Moreover, the Boston Beer Company now derives a significant portion of its income from other alcoholic beverages, such as ciders, Twisted Tea, shandys, and hard sodas. This diversification not only compromises its craft beer credentials but also highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of the craft beer market.
Why Local Craft Beers Are Worth Discovering
Instead of fantasizing about drinking a "plucky and adventurous" small batch handcrafted beer when you have a Samuel Adams, why not find your local brewery? Each local brewery has its unique story, challenging offerings, and a community of passionate drinkers. Engaging with local breweries can offer a far richer experience. You can taste, talk, and discuss their products, all while building connections with like-minded individuals.
Local breweries are more likely to focus on quality and innovation, without the commercial pressures often felt by larger breweries. You can experience the hard work, passion, and friendships behind each brew. This personal journey of discovery is what makes the craft beer scene truly compelling.
My Personal Favorites
While great craft beers come from brands like Sierra Nevada, The Alchemist, Racer 5, Blind Bat, Dogfish Head, Brooklyn Brewing, and Cigar City, my personal favorites come from two local breweries: Aardwolf Brewing Co. and Green Room Brewing Co. in Jacksonville, FL. These local gems offer a unique taste and flavor profile that reflect the local culture and community.
It’s subjective to declare just one "best" beer. Each person has their own preferences and tastes. However, there are several standout craft beers that are widely acclaimed:
Sierra Nevada
Sierra Nevada is a household name in the craft beer world, known for its flagship Pale Ale and other high-quality offerings. Its variety and quality are outstanding, making it a popular choice among craft beer enthusiasts.
The Alchemist
The Alchemist, based in Fort Collins, Colorado, is renowned for its imaginative and complex blends. The brewery's Toppling Tower and Heady Topper are two of the most sought-after beers in the craft beer world. They are often described as being exceptionally rich and flavorful.
Jameson's Murphys Irish Stout
Jameson's Murphys Irish Stout is a favorite among many craft beer lovers. It is a smooth, creamy stout with a characteristic flavor of coffee and dark chocolate. Its rich taste and smooth finish make it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a robust, full-bodied beer.
Ultimately, the "best" craft beer is a matter of personal taste and preference. The journey of discovering and tasting new beers is what makes the craft beer scene so exciting. So, why not explore the local craft beer scene and find your own favorite offerings?
Keywords: craft beer, best craft beer, Samuel Adams