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 Michael Larson | Colorado, Flute Glass, German Pilsener, Left Hand Brewing Company, Mug, Pilsner Glass, United States |
I am constantly trying to convert people. Those who hold a Big Three beer in their hand, clutching it with a death grip as though it were their key to survival, those are my mission. Last night, I was attempting to spread just such a gospel. I volunteered to bring...
by Tom Smillie | Illinois, Imperial / Double IPA, Snifter, Tulip, Two Brothers Brewing Company, United States, Wine Glass |
Once again it is a hot and humid day here in the Chicagoland area. Wanting to enjoy my Sunday afternoon I found myself yet again hunkered down in my cool basement for a bit of relief from the heat. Upon dozing off to some old episodes of The Office, I figured it was...
by Michael Larson | American Pale Ale (APA), Mug, Pennsylvania, Pint Glass, United States, Victory Brewing Company |
It smells like orange-flavored fruit snacks. And hops. Really, really good hops. It may be one of the best smelling beers that I’ve ever smelled. Mixed in is a slight bit of yeast, refreshing and cleansing. In color, it is a simple golden orange blend, clear and...
by Team | Colorado, Oskar Blues Brewery, Pint Glass, Russian Imperial Stout, Snifter, United States |
Michael: Cross-eyed. Cyclopean. Cancupiscent. Or so says Ten Fidy. Brewed and proudly canned by the Oskar Blues Brewery, this imperial stout is so named for the 10.5% alcohol that slips through its oil-like body and smoothly down your throat. It poured deep, dark,...
by Michael Larson | American Amber / Red Ale, Mug, O'so Brewing Company, Pilsner Glass, Pint Glass, United States, Wisconsin |
In this neck of the woods, O’so Brewing Company is, well, oh-so-famous. I first stumbled into this Plover, Wisconsin brewery in Hudson, Wisconsin, a one-off bottle in a mixed up sixer. It was their porter, it was good and I was impressed. However, the lack of...
by Michael Larson | New Glarus Brewing Company, United States, Weizen / Weissbier / Hefeweizen, Weizen Glass, Wisconsin |
When in Rome, do as the Romans do. When in Wisconsin? Drink New Glarus. I try to abide by this mantra each and every time I make a trip to or through this neighboring state. New Glarus has become a hot commodity to the Chicagoan, in part, I’m sure, to it’s...