In a landscape where the allure of wine and cocktails has been steadily on the rise for the past two decades, beer stands as the unwavering champion among alcoholic beverages in the United States. With an astonishing annual consumption of over 6 billion gallons, it dwarfs the nearly 1 billion gallons of wine sipped annually.
However, amidst the towering presence of established beer giants, the craft beer movement has been quietly and steadily gaining ground. Last year alone, craft beers witnessed a remarkable surge, posting a 5% increase in sales, and they now account for a quarter of the entire U.S. beer market. This surge is driven by a relentless spirit of experimentation, with new craft brews flowing into the market on a regular basis, delivering a refreshing array of aromas and flavors that stand in stark contrast to the predictable offerings from corporate brewing titans. (Discover the top local beer from each state.)
To curate a list that admittedly relies on subjective taste, 24/7 Tempo conducted extensive research, consulting numerous rankings and reviews from specialized websites such as Beer Advocate, Hop Culture, RateBeer, and Craft Beer & Brewing, in addition to broader-interest publications. While numerical ratings, where available, played a role in our selection process, we also took into account the insights and observations of both amateur and professional reviewers who offered their perspectives on various beers. (Rest assured, our list excludes any contenders for the title of “world’s worst beer.”)
It’s essential to note that craft beers, while delightful, can sometimes be elusive, limited to specific regions or seasons, and often command premium prices, occasionally exceeding $50 per bottle. These brews frequently feature bold flavor profiles, higher alcohol content, and varying degrees of bitterness, making them a diverse and eclectic range that may not cater to every palate. Nevertheless, together, they encapsulate the pinnacle of American craft brewing at this moment in time.
