As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the privilege of tasting and analyzing a wide range of beers from around the world. While taste is subjective and everyone has their own preferences, there are a few beers that have consistently stood out as exceptional in terms of quality, craftsmanship, and overall flavor profile. In my opinion, the best beer in the world in 2023 is a subjective matter, but I can certainly share some of the top contenders based on my personal experiences and the current trends in the industry.
1. Westvleteren 12: This Belgian Trappist ale is often hailed as one of the best beers in the world. Brewed by the monks of the Saint Sixtus Abbey, it has a rich and complex flavor profile, with notes of dark fruit, caramel, and spices. The craftsmanship and dedication that goes into producing this beer is truly remarkable.
2. Pliny the Elder: This highly sought-after double IPA from Russian River Brewing Company in California has gained a cult-like following among beer enthusiasts. With its intense hop bitterness, tropical fruit notes, and well-balanced malt backbone, it showcases the art of brewing an exceptional IPA.
3. Cantillon Fou' Foune: Cantillon is renowned for its traditional lambic and gueuze beers, but Fou' Foune stands out as a true masterpiece. This apricot lambic is aged in oak barrels, resulting in a tart yet fruity beer with a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. It's a beer that truly pushes the boundaries of what beer can be.
4. Hill Farmstead Brewery's Edward: This American pale ale is a shining example of the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into brewing exceptional beers. With its vibrant hop aromas, balanced bitterness, and clean malt profile, Edward is a beer that showcases the beauty of simplicity.
5. Pilsner Urquell: This Czech pilsner is often considered the original and quintessential example of the style. Brewed since 1842, it has a crisp, clean taste with a perfect balance of malt and hop flavors. It's a beer that exemplifies the art of lager brewing.
6. Trappistes Rochefort 10: Another Belgian Trappist ale, Rochefort 10 is a rich and decadent beer with flavors of dark fruits, caramel, and a hint of chocolate. It has a velvety smooth mouthfeel and a warming alcohol presence, making it a perfect beer for savoring on a cold winter evening.
7. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale: This American classic has been a staple in the craft beer scene for decades. With its citrusy hop aromas, balanced bitterness, and caramel malt backbone, it's a beer that showcases the best of American brewing traditions.
8. Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier: As the oldest brewery in the world, Weihenstephaner has perfected the art of brewing German-style wheat beers. Their hefeweissbier is a shining example of the style, with its refreshing banana and clove flavors, creamy mouthfeel, and lively carbonation.
9. Orval: This unique Belgian Trappist ale is known for its complex flavor profile, which evolves over time. It has a dry and slightly tart taste, with notes of citrus, spices, and earthiness. Orval is a beer that rewards patience and is best enjoyed when aged for a few years.
10. Founders KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout): This imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels is a beer lover's dream. With its rich and roasty flavors, hints of chocolate and coffee, and a subtle bourbon sweetness, it's a beer that delivers a truly indulgent experience.
These are just a few examples of the exceptional beers that are available in the world today. It's important to remember that taste is subjective, and what may be the best beer for one person may not be the same for another. The beauty of the beer world lies in its diversity and the endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. So go out there, try new beers, and find your own personal best beer in the world!