In the vast landscape of craft beer, some brews rise above the rest, captivating beer enthusiasts with their exceptional flavors, unique brewing techniques, and limited availability. These sought-after beers have garnered a cult following, inspiring dedicated fans to embark on quests to obtain these liquid treasures. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most sought-out beers in the United States, delving into their distinct qualities and the reasons behind their popularity.
- Pliny the Elder (Russian River Brewing Company, California)
Pliny the Elder holds an iconic status in the craft beer world. This double IPA is renowned for its intense hop profile, balanced malt backbone, and bold flavors of citrus and pine. Its limited availability and consistent high ratings have made it a must-try for hop enthusiasts, leading to its coveted status.
- Heady Topper (The Alchemist, Vermont)
Heady Topper is a New England-style double IPA that has attained legendary status. With its hazy appearance, juicy tropical fruit flavors, and smooth mouthfeel, this beer has created a sensation among beer lovers. The brewery’s commitment to quality and limited distribution contribute to its allure and make it a prized find.
- Dark Lord (Three Floyds Brewing, Indiana)
Dark Lord is an imperial stout that has achieved near-mythical status. Brewed with an array of specialty malts and aged in a variety of barrels, this rich and decadent beer boasts flavors of chocolate, coffee, and dark fruits. Released only once a year during the brewery’s Dark Lord Day event, securing a bottle of this coveted brew requires dedication and persistence.
- Bourbon County Brand Stout (Goose Island Beer Co., Illinois)
Bourbon County Brand Stout is a barrel-aged imperial stout that has become synonymous with excellence. Aged in bourbon barrels, this beer develops rich layers of chocolate, vanilla, oak, and bourbon, creating a complex and indulgent drinking experience. Its annual release on Black Friday creates a frenzy among beer enthusiasts eager to obtain this highly sought-after beer.
- Westvleteren 12 (Brouwerij Westvleteren, Belgium)
While not brewed in the United States, Westvleteren 12 is worth mentioning due to its revered status. Produced by a Trappist monastery in Belgium, this quadrupel is highly sought after for its exceptional craftsmanship and elusive availability. Limited to certain times of the year and sold only at the monastery, obtaining a bottle of Westvleteren 12 requires perseverance and dedication.
- Tree House Brewing Company (Massachusetts)
Tree House Brewing Company has gained a devoted following for their hazy IPAs and pale ales. Beers like Julius, Green, and Haze showcase their expertise in creating juicy, aromatic, and full-bodied brews. The limited can releases at their brewery and the demand for their beers have made them a sought-after destination for beer enthusiasts.
- Cantillon Brewery (Belgium)
Cantillon Brewery is renowned for its traditional lambic and gueuze-style beers. Their spontaneous fermentation process, aging in oak barrels, and use of wild yeast and bacteria create beers with unique sour, funky, and complex flavors. The limited production and global demand for their beers make Cantillon a sought-after name among beer connoisseurs.
- Surly Darkness (Surly Brewing Co., Minnesota)
Surly Darkness is an imperial stout that has gained a cult following for its bold flavors of roasted malt, chocolate, coffee, and dark fruits. Released once a year, this highly anticipated beer draws crowds to the brewery for its limited availability and the chance to experience its rich and robust profile.
- Toppling Goliath Brewing Company (Iowa)
Toppling Goliath Brewing Company has garnered attention for their exceptional lineup of IPAs, stouts, and barrel-aged beers. Beers like King Sue, Kentucky Brunch Brand Stout, and Mornin’ Delight have generated excitement and praise for their impressive flavor profiles. The limited releases and high demand for these sought-after brews make them highly coveted among beer enthusiasts.
- Hill Farmstead Brewery (Vermont)
Hill Farmstead Brewery is renowned for their commitment to quality and their exceptional farmhouse-style ales. Beers like Abner, Susan, and Arthur exemplify their dedication to brewing complex, balanced, and flavorful beers. The limited distribution and the brewery’s reputation for excellence have made Hill Farmstead a destination for beer lovers seeking out top-tier brews.
Conclusion: The world of craft beer is teeming with exceptional brews that captivate our taste buds and spark our passion for exploration. The most sought-out beers in the United States represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship, pushing the boundaries of flavor and inspiring beer enthusiasts to embark on quests to obtain these liquid treasures. Whether it’s the limited availability, unique brewing techniques, or outstanding flavor profiles, these sought-after beers embody the spirit of adventure and passion that defines the craft beer community. So, raise a glass to the pursuit of flavor and the quest for extraordinary beers that continue to shape the ever-evolving landscape of craft brewing.
