The Craft Beer Revolution Continues: The Best Brews of 2023
Craft beer enthusiasts, rejoice! The year 2023 has been an exceptional one for the brewing industry, with countless innovative and delicious offerings hitting the shelves. In this article, we’ve curated a list of the top 20 craft beers of 2023 (so far) that have taken the beer community by storm. From bold IPAs to smooth stouts, we’ve got you covered.
1. Hop Haven IPA
Leading the charge is Hop Haven IPA, a hop lover’s dream. Bursting with tropical fruit flavors and a pleasant bitterness, this brew packs a serious punch. It’s balanced and exceptionally well-crafted, making it a go-to choice for IPA enthusiasts.
2. Velvet Mocha Stout
For those seeking a rich, velvety experience, Velvet Mocha Stout is a must-try. This decadent beer combines the flavors of dark chocolate and freshly brewed coffee, creating a smooth and indulgent treat. Enjoy it on a cozy evening, perhaps by a crackling fireplace.
3. Citrus Squeeze Witbier
When life gives you lemons, make Citrus Squeeze Witbier! This refreshing brew offers a zesty twist on the classic Belgian wheat ale. With bright citrus notes and a hint of coriander, it’s the perfect companion for warm summer days.
4. Hazy Hops Pale Ale
Hazy Hops Pale Ale has become a cult favorite among beer enthusiasts. This hazy and juicy brew showcases a variety of hops, resulting in a burst of tropical flavors and a smooth mouthfeel. It’s the ideal choice for those who prefer their beer with a fruit-forward profile.
5. Oak Barrel Aged Amber
With its complex blend of caramel, toffee, and vanilla flavors, Oak Barrel Aged Amber is a real treat for the senses. This amber ale spends time aging in oak barrels, allowing the beer to develop a delightful depth of flavor and a subtle hint of oakiness. Enjoy it with a hearty meal or on its own.
6. Tropical Paradise Sour
Tropical Paradise Sour transports you to a palm-fringed beach with its tantalizing combination of tropical fruits and a touch of tartness. This sour ale is both refreshing and invigorating, making it a perfect choice for those hot summer days.
7. Caramel Custard Porter
A velvety smooth porter with a twist, Caramel Custard Porter combines the flavors of rich caramel and creamy custard. Every sip feels like a dessert indulgence, making it an absolute delight for anyone with a sweet tooth.
8. Double Dry-Hopped Pale Ale
Double Dry-Hopped Pale Ale takes the already hop-forward pale ale style to a whole new level. With an intense aroma and flavor profile, thanks to double the amount of dry hopping, this beer is a hop lover’s dream come true.
9. Raspberry Wheat Ale
Fresh and fruity, Raspberry Wheat Ale offers a delightful fusion of tart raspberries and a light wheat base. This beer is perfect for those who enjoy a slightly sweet and tangy twist in their brews.
10. Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout
Indulge in the rich and robust flavors of Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout. Aged in bourbon barrels, this full-bodied and complex brew boasts notes of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and a pleasant warmth from the alcohol.
11. Tropical Haze IPA
If you’re searching for a tropical escape, look no further than Tropical Haze IPA. This beer is bursting with tropical hop flavors, such as pineapple, mango, and passion fruit, all balanced with a smooth bitterness. Close your eyes, take a sip, and be transported to paradise.
12. Peanut Butter Chocolate Porter
Calling all chocolate and peanut butter lovers! This decadent porter combines the best of both worlds, offering a rich and indulgent experience that is reminiscent of your favorite childhood treats. Savor it slowly and let the flavors linger on your palate.
13. Belgian Tripel
Belgian Tripel, a classic style with a contemporary twist. This strong ale boasts a complex flavor profile, showcasing fruity esters, spicy notes, and a delicate sweetness. It’s a beer that begs to be savored and enjoyed on a leisurely evening.
14. Pineapple Jalapeno Saison
For those who enjoy a touch of heat, Pineapple Jalapeno Saison is a true gem. Blending the sweetness of pineapples with the spiciness of jalapenos, this unique beer strikes a perfect balance between the two. It’s a refreshing and fiery delight.
15. Mango Milkshake IPA
Mango Milkshake IPA combines the creaminess of a milkshake with the tropical flavors of mango. This beer is velvety smooth, with a luscious mouthfeel that perfectly complements the vibrant mango notes. Close your eyes, take a sip, and picture yourself on a tropical beach.
16. Coffee Blonde Ale
Start your day the right way with Coffee Blonde Ale. This beer combines bright and crisp blonde ale characteristics with the invigorating flavors of freshly roasted coffee. It’s the ideal choice for those who can’t get enough of their morning cup of joe.
17. Blood Orange Radler
Quench your thirst with the vibrant flavors of Blood Orange Radler. This refreshing beer is a mix of lager and blood orange soda, resulting in a light and citrusy beverage. It’s perfect for those outdoor adventures or lazy afternoons by the pool.
18. Toasted Coconut Porter
Escape to a tropical paradise with Toasted Coconut Porter. This beer offers a sublime combination of roasted malts and toasted coconut, creating a rich and aromatic experience. Sip it slowly and let the flavors transport you to a sun-soaked beach.
19. Cherry Pie Berliner Weisse
With its vibrant cherry flavors and a subtle hint of pie crust, Cherry Pie Berliner Weisse is sure to capture your attention. This tart and fruity beer is reminiscent of biting into a slice of cherry pie, making it a delightful dessert in liquid form.
20. Grapefruit IPA
Last but certainly not least, Grapefruit IPA is a citrus lover’s dream come true. This beer melds the bold flavors of grapefruit with the refreshing bitterness of an IPA. It’s the perfect way to end our list of the best craft beers of 2023 (so far).
So, there you have it—the 20 best craft beers of 2023. These beers represent the creativity, craftsmanship, and passion that continue to drive the craft beer revolution. Whether you’re a hop head, a fan of sours, or enjoy a smooth stout, there’s something on this list to satisfy every palate. Grab a cold one, sit back, and enjoy the abundant flavors the craft beer world has to offer!
