Exploring the World of Craft Beer: What You Need to Know

Craft beer has taken the world by storm in recent years, with more and more people turning to these artisanal brews instead of traditional mass-produced beer. 

But what exactly is craft beer, and what sets it apart from its commercial counterparts? Here we’ll explore the world of craft beer and give you all the information you need.

What is craft beer?

Craft beer is a type of beer that is brewed by small, independent breweries using traditional brewing methods and high-quality ingredients. Craft beer focuses on flavour and unique characteristics.

The craft beer industry has exploded recently, with hundreds of new breweries popping up worldwide. This growth has been fueled by a growing demand for artisanal products and a desire among consumers for more diverse and exciting flavours.

What sets craft beer apart?

Several key characteristics set craft beer apart from mass-produced beer:

• Quality ingredients: Craft breweries use high-quality ingredients, such as premium hops and malt, to create unique and flavorful brews. They often source their ingredients locally, which supports the local economy and creates a sense of community around the brewery.
• Traditional brewing methods: Craft breweries use traditional brewing methods, which involve carefully controlling the temperature, timing, and fermentation process to create a high-quality, consistent product. This attention to detail is what gives craft beer its unique flavour profile.
• Innovation and experimentation: Craft breweries are known for their innovation and experimentation, often creating unique and unusual brews that push the boundaries of traditional beer styles. This creativity and willingness to take risks make craft beer so exciting and interesting.
• Small-scale production: Craft breweries are typically small-scale operations, producing beer in small batches rather than mass-producing it on a large scale. This allows them to maintain high quality and control over the brewing process.

Types of craft beer

Craft beer comes in various styles, each with unique flavour profiles and characteristics. Some of the most popular styles include:

• Pale ale: This hoppy beer is light in colour and has a crisp, refreshing taste.
• India pale ale (IPA): This robust and hoppy beer is known for its bitter taste and floral aroma.
• Stout: This dark, rich beer is brewed with roasted malt and has a creamy, full-bodied flavour.
• Wheat beer: This light, refreshing beer is brewed with wheat instead of barley and has a slightly sweet taste.
• Pilsner: This is a light, golden beer that is crisp and refreshing, with a slightly bitter finish.
• Saison: This is a farmhouse-style beer that is spicy and fruity, with a dry finish.

Choosing the right craft beer

Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to beer, and with so many different styles and flavours to choose from, you may need to try a wide variety before you find your favourite craft beer. 

• Start with a light beer: If you are new to craft beer, start with a light beer, such as a pale ale or wheat beer. These styles are easy to drink and have a mild flavour profile that won't overwhelm your taste buds.
• Try a flight: Many craft breweries offer flights, which are small samples of several different beers. This is a great way to try a variety of beers and find the ones you like best.
• Read the label: Craft beer labels often provide information about flavour profiles, ingredients, and brewing processes. Read the label to understand better what the beer will taste like.
• Ask for recommendations: If you are still deciding what to try, ask the bartender or staff at the brewery for recommendations. They are often knowledgeable about the different beers and can provide helpful advice.
• Pair with food: Craft beer can be paired with various foods, from spicy dishes to sweet desserts. Consider pairing your beer with food to enhance the flavour of both.
• Experiment: Feel free to try something new and experiment with different styles and flavours. You may discover a new favourite beer you would never have tried otherwise.

Where to find craft beer

Craft beer can be found in many locations, including breweries, bars, and restaurants. Here are some tips for finding the best craft beer:

• Visit local craft beer bottle shops: Local craft beer bottle shops, such as Sessions Liquor, are a great place to try craft beer and support your local community. Some craft beer bottle shops also offer events that allow you to learn more about the brewing process and try different beers.
• Check out beer festivals: Beer festivals are a great way to try a variety of craft beers from different breweries. These events often feature live music, food vendors, and other activities besides beer.
• Look for craft beer bars: Craft beer bars specialise in serving a wide variety of craft beers from different breweries. These bars often have knowledgeable staff who can recommend and help you find the perfect beer.
• Browse online: Sessions Liquor offers a wide online selection of craft beer, including rare and hard-to-find varieties. You can also use online resources, such as beer review sites, to research different beers and find the ones you want to try.

Looking for a local craft beer bottle shop?

Ready to try some new craft beers? Look no further than Sessions Liquor, your local bottle shop for all things craft beer. With a wide selection of local and regional brews and hard-to-find varieties, we're your go-to destination for exploring the world of craft beer. 

Visit us today and discover your new favourite beer!