As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and experience a wide variety of American beers. It is difficult to pinpoint one single beer as the “best” as taste preferences are subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. However, I can certainly highlight a few exceptional American beers that have left a lasting impression on me.
One standout beer that comes to mind is the Pliny the Elder from Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa, California. This beer is an iconic example of a double IPA, known for its intense hop flavors and aromas. It is incredibly well-balanced, with a smooth malt backbone that perfectly complements the citrusy, piney, and resinous hop character. Pliny the Elder has garnered a cult following and is highly sought after by beer enthusiasts across the country.
Another notable beer is the Bourbon County Brand Stout from Goose Island Beer Co. in Chicago, Illinois. This imperial stout is aged in bourbon barrels, imparting rich and complex flavors of chocolate, coffee, vanilla, and of course, bourbon. The beer is thick and luscious, with a velvety smooth mouthfeel that is truly indulgent. It is a perfect example of the art of barrel-aging and showcases the depth and complexity that can be achieved in American beer.
Moving to the West Coast, I cannot overlook the incredible offerings from San Diego's craft beer scene. One brewery that stands out is Modern Times Beer, known for their innovative and flavorful brews. Their flagship beer, the “Orderville” IPA, is a prime example of their commitment to quality and creativity. It is bursting with tropical fruit flavors, balanced by a resinous hop bitterness and a crisp, dry finish. Modern Times consistently pushes the boundaries of what can be done with hops, resulting in truly exceptional IPAs.
Heading up to the Pacific Northwest, I must mention Deschutes Brewery in Bend, Oregon. Their “Black Butte Porter” is a classic American porter that has become synonymous with the style. It is rich and roasty, with notes of chocolate, coffee, and a hint of caramel sweetness. The beer is incredibly smooth and velvety, with just the right amount of bitterness to balance out the malt flavors. It is a timeless example of a well-crafted American porter that has stood the test of time.
In addition to these specific beers, it is important to note that the American craft beer scene is constantly evolving and expanding. There are countless breweries across the country producing exceptional beers in a wide range of styles. Whether you prefer hop-forward IPAs, rich stouts, crisp lagers, or funky sour ales, there is truly something for everyone in the American beer landscape.
The “best” American beer is subjective and heavily dependent on individual taste preferences. The examples I have highlighted represent just a fraction of the incredible beers being brewed in the United States. I encourage beer enthusiasts to explore and discover their own personal favorites, as there is an abundance of exceptional American beers waiting to be enjoyed.