The Quest for Strong Beers: Beyond 12 Alcohol

When you walk into a beer bar or restaurant, any of the beers you order are typically 12% alcohol by volume (ABV). However, there is a world beyond your average bar-menu selection. Brewing giants and craft breweries alike have pushed the boundaries, creating beers that exceed these typical ABV limits. Let's dive into the fascinating world of strong beers, and explore why some might consider 12% abv to be exceptionally high.

Exploring High-ABV Beers

While 12% abv is indeed considered exceptionally high for a standard bottling, there are beers that surpass this mark. Some of the most notable exceptions can be found in the world of craft brewing. Imbibers in search of high-alcohol alternatives might come across a formidable beast like the Brewmeister Snake Venom 67.5 or a barrel-aged Imperial Stout with an ABV of 12% or even higher.

Beyond 12%: Special Mention

Significantly stronger beers exist and are celebrated in the crafting communities, like BeerAdvocate or Untappd. These special brews can indeed have an ABV of 12% or more, and they can be as delightful as they are potent. Some favorite styles include:

Barrel-Aged Imperial Stouts

These are complex, rich, and deeply malt-forward beers that spend considerable time aging in barrels, often bourbon barrels. The result is a flavorful, thick texture that masks the overwhelming alcohol content. These beers embody balance and full-bodied mouthfeel, making them enjoyable despite their high ABV.

Belgian Quadrupel-Style Ales

Considered one of the strongest ales, Belgian quadrupel-style ales can achieve high ABVs. They are sweet and malty, with little to no detectable alcohol taste. Due to their drinkability, these ales are often enjoyed easily, even at such high ABVs.

Widely Available 12% Beers

Many craft beer enthusiasts keep some of the strong knocks in their fridges. Some of the favorites include:

A premium 15% ABV beer (notably a high ABV Barley Wine) Literally several beers each with an ABV of 14% or more

These are not just for the brave or the boozy. Some of them are enjoyed for their complexity and richness, while others are sipped meticulously, with a sprinkle of discretion.

Debate: Strength vs. Classification

While 12% is high, pushing it up to 16% or beyond is not uncommon. However, there's a point at which the beer's classification changes. Some may argue that at those strengths, the distinction between beer and barley wine becomes more apparent. For instance, at 20% ABV, these beverages would be rightfully called barley wines, showcasing the extreme limit where the classification shifts.

Personal Anecdote: A Beer of Controversy

One memorable experience involves a high ABV beer that was served in a minimal portion of a pint. This 20% ABV beer was such a signature of a unique event or a special occasion that more than one third of a pint was available. When a friend offered to share, I accepted, and proceeded to find myself on a journey of consciousness over the course of a train ride. Though I was left in a dazed state, somehow, I managed to make it home in a surprisingly rapid fashion, all thanks to that memorable sip of liquid courage.

Market trends show a growing interest in strong ales and their distinct characteristics. With these high-alcohol beers, you not only get a potent taste but also a unique drinking experience that challenges the bounds of conventional beer taste and enjoyment.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The universe of strong beers is vast, with many treasures waiting to be explored. Beer enthusiasts continually delve into the realm of high ABV, where the balance between texture, flavor, and alcohol content is meticulously crafted. These powerful beverages exist not just to get you drunk quickly but to provide an enriching and diverse experience for savoring the art of brewing.