As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can assure you that the majority of craft brewers do not use corn syrup in their brews. Craft beer is all about using high-quality ingredients and traditional brewing methods, which often exclude the use of adjuncts like corn syrup.
When it comes to corn syrup, it is more commonly found in mass-produced macro brews like American Lagers and Light American Lagers. These types of beers are often made by large commercial breweries such as Coors, Miller, and Budweiser, who may use corn syrup as a cheaper alternative to traditional brewing sugars.
Craft brewers, on the other hand, pride themselves on using malted grains like barley, wheat, rye, and oats as the primary sources of fermentable sugars. By using these grains instead of corn syrup, craft brewers are able to create beers with more complex flavors and character.
That being said, it is important to note that not all craft beers are free from adjuncts. Some brewers may choose to experiment with different ingredients to add unique flavors to their beers. However, corn syrup is generally not a common choice among craft brewers.
If you are looking for beers that are specifically free from corn syrup, it is always a good idea to check the label or contact the brewery directly. Many craft breweries take pride in being transparent about their brewing process and ingredients used. They often provide detailed information about the ingredients on their websites or packaging.
In my personal experience, I have come across numerous craft breweries that explicitly state that they do not use corn syrup in their beers. I remember visiting a small brewery in Vermont, where the brewer proudly mentioned that all their beers were brewed using only malted grains and natural sugars, without any corn syrup or other adjuncts. This commitment to using quality ingredients is one of the reasons why craft beer has gained such popularity among beer enthusiasts.
To summarize, while corn syrup may be used in some mass-produced macro brews, the majority of craft brewers prioritize using malted grains and traditional brewing methods. If you are specifically looking for beers without corn syrup, it is best to check the label or reach out to the brewery for more information.