The Ultimate Guide to Craft Beer Styles

Essential takeaway: Craft beer has exploded in popularity over the past decade. Understanding the different styles—from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts—can enhance your appreciation and help you discover new favorites.

Craft beer has exploded in popularity over the past decade, and with good reason. The variety of flavors, aromas, and styles available today is truly remarkable. Whether you're new to craft beer or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding the different styles can enhance your appreciation and help you discover new favorites.

India Pale Ale (IPA)

IPAs are perhaps the most popular craft beer style. Originally brewed in England for export to India, these beers are characterized by their hoppy bitterness and floral, citrus, or pine aromas. Modern variations include:

• West Coast IPA: Clear, bitter, and hop-forward


• New England IPA (Hazy IPA): Juicy, fruity, and less bitter


• Double/Imperial IPA: Higher alcohol content and more intense hop flavors

Stout

Dark, rich, and full-bodied, stouts are known for their roasted malt flavors reminiscent of coffee and chocolate. Popular variations include:

• Dry Stout: Light-bodied with a dry finish (like Guinness)


• Milk Stout: Sweeter and creamier due to lactose


• Imperial Stout: Higher alcohol with intense flavors

Lager

Lagers are crisp, clean, and refreshing. They're fermented at cooler temperatures, resulting in a smooth, balanced beer. Types include:

• Pilsner: Light, golden, and hoppy


• Helles: Malty and slightly sweet


• Dunkel: Dark lager with caramel notes

Wheat Beer

Made with a significant proportion of wheat, these beers are often cloudy and refreshing. Common styles:

• Hefeweizen: German wheat beer with banana and clove notes


• Witbier: Belgian wheat beer with coriander and orange peel


• American Wheat: Cleaner and less spicy than European versions

Sour Beer

Intentionally tart and acidic, sour beers are complex and food-friendly. Popular styles:

• Berliner Weisse: Light and refreshing


• Gose: Salty and tart


• Flemish Red: Wine-like and complex

Visit Number 1 to explore these styles and more. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect beer for your palate!