Many American beers will always be part of the beverage landscape. From iconic horses pulling the cart to the top of a Rocky Mountain landscape, these brews are just a small sampling of the robust American beer scene. While local breweries and limited-edition releases have people stocking the fridge with a special sipper, other year round American beers deserve some special attention.
From light lagers to rich stouts, the beer industry is quite diverse. Even with large scale American breweries look to offer several options across the various categories. While some people tend to stick in their lane, others prefer to appreciate all the options.
Time to grab one of these American beers.
Dale’s Light Lager
While the classic Dale’s Pale Ale might be the brand that Oskar Blues is best known for, the Dale’s Light Lager is the easy drinking option. The bright, crisp lager has mild floral hops and pairs with almost any food. This highly sessionable beer is a great all-around option for day drinking.
Elysian Space Dust
While Elysian’s pumpkin beers are legendary, Space Dust is the celestial standard in a well-balanced IPA. Never forgetting the brand’s creativity and playfulness, the tropical fruits paired with pine notes feel like balancing the known with the uncharted. When it is an afternoon to dream big, Space Dust is always the perfect pairing.
Goose Island IPA
While many people covet the annual Bourbon County Stout releases, the year-round Goose Island IPA has a classic, hoppy flavor that has earned several Great American Beer Festival wins. Even with a touch of grapefruit citrus, the bold beer is perfect with that Chicago dog, deep dish pizza, or any food.
Samuel Adams Cherry Wheat
Samuel Adams led the way in developing the craft beer movement. Beyond the signature beer, the brand’s seasonal offerings have people toasting to new flavors as the temperatures change. With the Cherry Wheat, this permanent beer offering brings a juiciness to the brightest summer days and the dreariest winter nights. The combination of slight tartness with a hint of honey sweetness makes the wheat forward beer a great choice with a simple roast chicken or even paired with a slice of chocolate cake.
Shiner Ruby Redbird
While the classic Shiner Bock is a Texas icon, the Ruby Redbird balances the tart citrus juiciness with a touch of ginger spice. Light, refreshing, and easy drinking, it is great with a plate of barbecue, dip, or even enjoyed by itself while floating in the lake.
Yuengling Traditional Lager
As the nation’s oldest brewery, Yuengling never goes out of style. As the brand continues to expand its distribution, the amber colored lager has a touch of sweetness that adds to its broad-based appeal. There is a reason why this beer has been around for longer than any other.
Although new, creative brews often garner tons of attention, the classics deserve another pour. Thirsty to revisit what you have been missing?