Origin: Vermont, USA, 2003ish History: A modern craft beer style originating in the New England region of the United States. Alchemist Heady Topper is believed to be the original example and inspiration for many other interpretations that grew in popularity in the early to mid-2010s. Brewers are continuing to innovate and evolve the style, with … Read more
Origin: Europe, to USA via Germany mid-1800’s History: Although German immigrants had brewed traditional Pilsner-inspired lager beer in the United States since the mid-late 1800s, the modern American lager style was heavily influenced by Prohibition and World War II. Surviving breweries consolidated, expanded distribution, and heavily promoted a beer style that was appealing to a … Read more
Origin: Munich, Germany, Around 1870 History: Adapted from Czech Pilsner to suit brewing conditions in Germany, particularly water with higher mineral content and domestic hop varieties. This style became more popular after WWII as German brewing schools emphasized modern techniques. German Pils, along with its sister beer, Czech Pilsner, is the ancestor of the most … Read more
Origin: Bavaria – 1872 History: While Bavaria has a had a tradition of brewing wheat beer dating back hundreds of years, brewing wheat beer used to be reserved for Bavarian royalty only. Modern weissbier dates back to 1872 when Schneider began production. However, pale weissbier only became popular since the 1960s. It is quite popular … Read more
Because beer is, in fact, food, and because beer offers such a wide array of aromas and flavor, it allows for the perfect pairing to fully enhance your dining experience. Understanding exactly how the flavors and aromas of your beer can bring your meal to another level is actually quite simple and fun. When pairing … Read more
If you take a few minutes to understand “The 3 C’s of Pairing Beer & Food” you will immediately be able to put them to work the next time you sit down to eat. Compliment, contrast, and cut are the key words to keep in mind when pairing beer with your food. While considering beer … Read more
Origin: London, England: 1780ish History: IPA’s evolved from English October/Pale Ales that were shipped to India for the British Troops. These soldiers were given a ration of a gallon of ale per day! Sadly, these pale ales struggled on the long overseas journey from London, souring in the heat on their weeks long trip as they rounded … Read more
Origin: Dublin, Ireland: Late 1800ish History: Dry Irish Stouts evolved from attempts to capitalize on the success of London porters, and reflected a fuller, creamier, more “stout” body and strength. Irish stout diverged from London Porter in the late 1800s, with an emphasis on darker malts. Guinness was among the first breweries to use black … Read more
Origin: Belgium, 17th Century History: This 400-year-old Belgian beer style sort of died out in the 1950. Thankfully, it was later revived by Pierre Celis at Hoegaarden, and has grown steadily in popularity over time, both with modern craft brewers (your favorite local) and mass-market producers (Blue Moon) Appearance: Pale straw to noticeably light gold in … Read more