As the sun sets on another year, beer enthusiasts like myself find solace in the delightful testament to crafty brewing: the standout beers that enthrall our palates and redefine our beer-drinking experiences. In 2024, I unearthed eight memorable brews that left me contemplating the endless possibilities within the world of beer. Each of these selections reflects not only a delightful taste but also an atmospheric experience, shared with friends and fellow beer lovers.
During a languorous sunny afternoon in Portland, Oregon, I stumbled upon ForeLand Beer, a brewery exuding warmth and community spirit. Accompanied by my friend and esteemed beer writer, Jeff Alworth, we indulged in a cask ale that exemplified the craftsmanship of the industry. The collaboration with Hood River’s Kings and Daughters brewery showcased a unique style, served in a traditional German glass adorned with festive charm, despite the March weather. The lower carbonation and slightly elevated temperature afforded by the cask presentation amplified the beer’s toasty malt backbone, igniting an appreciation for the finesse that goes into brewing. This experience not only intensified my enjoyment of the beer but also reinforced the importance of traditional brewing methods that enhance the overall drinking experience.
Nestled in my beloved home state of Connecticut, Counter Weight Brewing has emerged as a powerhouse of lager production. Gaining recognition with medals at esteemed competitions like the Great American Beer Festival, this brewery is a testament to the potential of lagers in a craft beer market increasingly dominated by IPAs. On a biting January day, I heeded the advice of a charismatic tasting room server and opted for the rauchbock. This robust smoked lager exuded complexity with its rich, dark profile and pleasant smokiness. Tasting this beer underscored the joys of seasonal pairings; the rauchbock enveloped me in warmth, perfectly complementing the frigid winter air outside. Counter Weight’s dedication to the craft is not just a matter of taste, but an invitation to explore something often overlooked.
Hill Farmstead: An Ode to Nature’s Bounty
After witnessing a total solar eclipse for the first time, I sought refuge at Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro Bend, Vermont, a simple yet profound choice for anyone who appreciates artisanal brewing. The low-alcohol sour beer, brewed with local plums using pomace, embodied the charm of fruit-infused brewing. Its deep violet hue was mesmerizing, while the flavor reverberated with lively plum notes. A mere 2% ABV offered a refreshing balance, creating a delightful juxtaposition to the grandeur of the cosmos I had just witnessed. In that moment, I understood why Hill Farmstead is celebrated globally; they encapsulate the essence of nature within a glass.
While exploring the picturesque landscapes of Utah, I visited Offset Bier Co., a brewery radiating a relaxed charm that embodies the spirit of outdoor adventures. With the pristine mountains as a backdrop, I sampled their DOPO IPA, clocking in at a friendly 5% ABV. This harmonious blend of Mosaic, Nelson Sauvin, and Simcoe hops created a refreshing brew, perfect for sipping after a rewarding day spent in nature. This experience not only satisfied my thirst but also instilled a sense of camaraderie among fellow visitors, further underscoring the role of beer in social bonding.
Cincinnati’s own Masthead Brewing presented a delightful hazy IPA that stirred my nostalgia for the New England craft brewing scene. Sipping this juiciness after a Reds game was a quintessentially American experience. The beer delivered an explosion of tropical fruit flavors, seamlessly creating an approachable drinking experience at 6.7% ABV. Not only was this hazy impressive; it reminded me of the unassuming elegance that can be found within urban breweries, all while igniting memories of my New England roots.
In the quaint surrounding of Hadrow, England, a visit to the Green Dragon pub unveiled the classic Old Peculier. This beer, steeped in rich history since the early 1800s, displayed deep cherry undertones intertwined with a roasty finish. Tasting this legendary ale in its native locale was an unforgettable moment, enhancing my appreciation for traditional brewing methods that have endured through time.
As the atmosphere of Denver’s Great American Beer Festival thrummed with excitement, my co-host Don Tse and I made our way to Third Eye Brewing. Here, I discovered an unexpected delight: a pumpkin ale that transcended typical seasonal options. With a robust balance of pumpkin spice and a comforting chewiness, this 6.3% ABV offering was unlike anything I had expected. It was the ideal introduction to embracing the seasonal charm of pumpkin beers, leaving me eager for more.
Exploring the vibrant streets of Merida, Mexico, I ventured into a local taproom, where I encountered a refreshing West Coast IPA from Cerveza Fervor. The intricacies of craft brewing were evident in each sip, defined by a fresh and invigorating hop profile. With a 5.6% ABV, this beer was a testament to the notion that quality craft beer knows no bounds, transcending geographical constraints to unite people of all cultures.
As I reflect on these remarkable brews, it’s evident that every sip is laden with stories of friend and family gatherings, moments of discovery, and the celebration of craftsmanship prevalent in the beer community. Here’s to another year of exhilarating beer adventures, where every pint shared reminds us of the wonderfully diverse tapestry of flavors that bind us all.