Getting Started

What’s the best way to get started? Go out there, buy something, stick it in your fridge, then drink it! Of course this can be a bit intimidating. Investing in a six pack of craft beer can add up quickly, especially with the fear that the beer may be dumped. Below are a couple quick pointers to get started, but remember to never stop trying new beer, especially local. Most styles of beer are best served fresh, and buying within your region can often help obtain good, fresh beer.

Mixed Packs

Find a store that allows you to buy single 12 oz bottles, or better yet if they allow you to make your own six-pack at a discount. If you can’t find anything like this in your area, many mid-size breweries will release seasonal mixed packs. Sam Adams and Sierra will definitely have these everywhere, but no matter where you are based there should be some floating around. Try to sample different styles; see which styles you like, then go from there.

Sample Pours/Tastings

Some beer bars will offer sample pours of their drafts. For a reduced price, you can try a smaller portion of the beer on draft. Usually, this will be listed on the menu, but some bars will give out some free sips when it’s slow, so hit up your favorite bar on a Monday or Tuesday for your best bets at getting your hands on some samples. Make friends with your bartender, ask them what they like, see if there’s anything brand new lying around. This allows you to try a larger number of beers without breaking the bank. In addition, some stores (depending on your state laws) may set up free tastings occasionally. This will usually be in conjunction with a specific brewery, and it’s a good opportunity to try a variety of styles in one sitting.

Gateway Beers

People can stumble onto craft beer in any number of ways. Due to their availability and drinkability, these beers seem to pop up the most as a beer that turned somebody on to craft beer. So where do you go from there?

Blue Moon

Saisons, witbiers, and hefeweizens should be right in line with your tastes. See the examples noted in the respective styles above. For witbiers, look to Hoegaarden.

Sam Adams (Boston Lager)

Do you prefer the earthy, spicy hoppiness? Check out an ESB, Czech pilsner, or a Belgian pale ale. Is it the biscuity malt backing that does it for you? Try a Maibock like Rogue Dead Guy Ale or an Oktoberfest from any number of German imports that come your way.

Sierra Nevada (Pale Ale)

IPAs are a nice step up for an aspiring hophead. Sierra Nevada APA focuses on citrus American hops with a balanced malt background. IPAs will ramp up the intensity both in bitterness and hop aroma. If you find these lack the malt backing you’re looking for, maybe give copper ales a try, or even American barleywines if you’re feeling adventurous.

Guinness

Porters and stouts are a great place to start. When trying to match that creamy Guinness mouthfeel, reach for a North Coast Old Rasputin, especially if it’s a keg served on nitrogen. Be aware- imperial varieties may also be up your alley, but the flavor profile and alcohol content will be robust compared to Guinness.

Newcastle Brown

Brown ales, dubbels and bocks should be similar. Look for Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown if there’s any available. A malty English barleywine may also fall in line, but this is a big beer, with a lot of body and a lot of alcohol so beware.

Important note: Do not let these suggestions be exhaustive or definitive. They are merely recommendations. If the style(s) listed do not fit your tastes, try to pinpoint the likes/dislikes you had about the beers you tried. Ask your local retailer or bartender, or even the internet, for suggestions that might match the flavors you’re looking for. In the beer industry, people are often more than willing to help someone with a legitimate interest.