As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can assure you that the majority of craft brewers do not use corn syrup in their beers. Craft beer is known for its emphasis on quality ingredients and traditional brewing methods, which often means avoiding the use of adjuncts like corn syrup.
When it comes to macro brews, such as American Lagers and Light American Lagers, corn syrup is more commonly used as a cheaper alternative to malted barley. This is done to lighten the body and increase fermentable sugars in the beer. However, it is important to note that not all macro brews use corn syrup, as some may still rely solely on malted barley as their primary fermentable ingredient.
If you are looking for beers without corn syrup, your best bet is to explore the world of craft beer. Craft brewers take pride in their brewing processes and tend to use high-quality ingredients, often focusing on malted barley as the primary source of fermentable sugars.
Here are some popular styles of beer that are typically free of corn syrup:
1. India Pale Ale (IPA): IPAs are known for their hop-forward flavors and aromas. Craft breweries around the world produce a wide variety of IPAs, ranging from citrusy and tropical to piney and bitter. These beers are typically brewed with a combination of malted barley, hops, water, and yeast, with no need for adjuncts like corn syrup.
2. Stout and Porter: Stouts and porters are dark, rich, and full-bodied beers. They often feature flavors of roasted malt, chocolate, and coffee. Craft breweries take pride in using high-quality malted barley to achieve these complex flavors, without the need for adjuncts like corn syrup.
3. Belgian Ales: Belgian ales encompass a wide range of styles, including Tripels, Dubbels, and Saisons. These beers are known for their fruity esters, spicy phenols, and complex yeast character. Belgian brewers typically rely on the traditional ingredients of malted barley, hops, water, and yeast, without the addition of corn syrup.
4. German Lagers: German lagers, such as Pilsners and Märzens, are known for their crisp and clean flavors. These beers are traditionally brewed using only malted barley, hops, water, and yeast. Craft breweries that specialize in German-style lagers often adhere to these traditional methods, avoiding adjuncts like corn syrup.
5. Sour Ales: Sour ales have gained popularity in recent years for their tangy and acidic flavors. These beers undergo a fermentation process involving wild yeast or bacteria, which creates the tartness. Craft brewers who specialize in sour ales typically rely on traditional brewing methods and avoid the use of adjuncts like corn syrup.
It's worth noting that the above list is not exhaustive, as there are countless craft breweries and beer styles to explore. I encourage you to visit local breweries, talk to the brewers, and inquire about their brewing processes. Craft beer is a diverse and ever-evolving world, and you're sure to find a wide range of delicious options that do not contain corn syrup.