10 Craft Beers You Need To Try
Words: Alex Woodhall
Craft beers have moved from a mere fad to a full on alcoholic revolution. Whilst a definition of what constitutes a craft beer isn’t concrete, the term generally refers to a beer produced by a smaller company, not one of the large-scale corporations. Produced in smaller quantities and often with far more interesting flavours, craft beers have so far managed to hold off the charge of their bigger, generic competitors, despite their attempts to muscle in.
American influence is rather clear when it comes to craft beer, but UK-based companies still produce some truly world-class ale; and there are a number of superb bars dedicated to the stuff dotted around the capital. With the movement now in full swing, established and now entrenched, seeking out an interesting beverage isn’t such a hard task. Expand your palate beyond the Heineken and Stella with these craft beers, all full of character…
JAIPUR, THORNBRIDGE
A pale ale, it’s citrusy and bitter at the end but smooth initially, the hoppiness is balanced by a sweet honey.
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TORPEDO, SIERRA NEVADA
Another IPA, Torpedo packs the punch its name promises. 7.2%, it’s bitter with a hoppy base built upon by tropical and citrus flavours.
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CHAPEL DOWN, CURIOUS BREW
Clean and dry, this premium lager is perfect for anyone seeking out a better beer experience. Full of flavor yet maintaining a balance, it’s aromatic and crisp, far better than your usual brew.
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ALESMITH WEE HEAVY SCOTCH ALE
A big name in the San Diego beer scene, this scotch ale is heavy but still remarkably smooth, with background flavours of chocolate and molasses they help smoothen the taste.
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DOMINION, HOP MOUNTAIN
American Pale Ale style, medium, dry finish with a florally hop aroma. If you’re a fan of stateside brews, dominion is quite possibly what you’re after this side of the Atlantic.
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BREWDOG, BLACK TOKYO HORIZON
Scottish brewery BrewDog has been at the fore of the craft beer movement on our shores. A burgeoning household name, the company’s range of beers has been immensely popular so far all over the country. This premium take is a collaboration between Nogne and Mikkeller and is a recipe based on all three brewers’ big stouts.
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ROGUE, “OLD CRUSTACEAN BARLEYWINE”
Pioneering the scene in Portland, Rogue’s specialty is eye catching, flavourful brews. The most intense is this Barleywine, screen-printed in a modern bottle, it’s a sipping beer not a chugger. Best when aged for a year, it’s robust, malty and dark.
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UNCOMMON BREWERS “BACON BROWN”
Yes bacon in your beer, the much-loved pork cut has made its way to the brewery. The presence of the meat gives a smoky taste to this nut brown ale.
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BROOKLYN HAND AND SEAL
A pricey pint, Hand and Seal is a rich beer full of taste. The barley peaks through amid layers of vanilla, coconut and florals given by the aging process. It’s complex but not perfurmey and deliciously sweet.
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TO ØL MINE IS BIGGER THAN YOURS XXXL
If you think the Brooklyn is costly at £22.49 a bottle, this Danish barley wine comes in 15 litre bottles and they’ll set you back a cool £1,995.00. Aged in Muscatel and Bourbon Barrels for 9 months, there are only 12 in the world, be quick if you want this ultimate showpiece.
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