United States Beer Reviews
Although beer existed in the United States from its birth (and before), it wasn’t until Prohibition that the state of beer in America was truly united. Today, the United States is arguably the world’s most important beer market, where brewers enjoy the most freedom to practice and advance their craft. The market is a true melting pot of brewing styles and traditions, and the beer community is as vibrant as it is diverse. While things really got started during and as a result of the Prohibition Era (1919-1933), fermented drinks pre-date the country’s founding in 1776. Hailed as a land of opportunity, huge macrobrewing enterprises like AB InBev and MillerCoors co-exist alongside a growing number of small craft beer companies. A country built by immigrants, America has heavy European brewing influences. The number of influential breweries are too great to number, and the list continues to evolve as independent brewers push innovation in the craft and give the world more and more interesting lagers and ales to explore.
by Tom Smillie | Beer Reviews, Founders Brewing Company, Michigan, Old Ale, Pint Glass, Snifter, United States, Wine Glass, Wood-Aged Beers |
Curmedgeon. A bad-tempered, crusty, difficult, stubborn, (generally) old person. The label depicts what looks to me like an old John Calvin (college located nearby brewery). Perhaps Founders is suggesting that scholars should step away from the books every once and...
by Tom Smillie | Beer Reviews, Goose Island Beer Company, Illinois, Mug, Pint Glass, Russian Imperial Stout, Snifter, Spiced / Herbed / Vegetable Beers, United States |
In the wake of producing some pretty huge stouts last year (Nightstalker and the BCS line), Goose released yet another monster in April of 2011 with this beer. The sexy label is quickly familiar to the Chicagoland native as the design mimics that of the iconic John...
by Tom Smillie | Abita Brewing Company, American Brown Ale, Beer Reviews, Louisiana, Mug, Pint Glass, Spiced / Herbed / Vegetable Beers, United States |
One quarter of a century. Who knew this brewery had been in operation since 1986? I sure didn’t. Hell, everyone talks about the California brewers as being the pioneers of the craft beer industry, but Abita was right there with them. Providing fresh beer to...
by Tom Smillie | American Stout, Avery Brewing Company, Beer Reviews, Colorado, Mug, Pint Glass, United States |
C.V. Howe (Marketing Director) puts it well on Avery’s website in saying that Out of Bounds is, “a roast monster!” Pouring a garnet hue with a creamy beige head it is no wonder this beer might be a pub favorite based on looks alone. Pressing your...
by Tom Smillie | American Barleywine, Avery Brewing Company, Beer Reviews, Colorado, Pint Glass, Snifter, United States |
According Adam Avery, Hog Heaven was the beer that helped put his brewery on the map. Looking at the label one might they they are in for a smoked beer, but don’t be fooled. The nonsensical name is only a front for this barleywine-style ale. In a video Adam...
by Team | Coffee Beers, Founders Brewing Company, Michigan, Mug, Oatmeal Stout, Pint Glass, United States |
Tom: Do you remember that Folgers jingle? “The best part of waking up…” Well, the answer lies in, “Breakfast Stout in your cup.” Seriously, I’ve had this beer at night, mid-day, after work, but to truly get the full essence of...