So, you’re curious about craft beer, but the tap list looks more like a foreign language than a drink menu. Maybe you’ve even tried a few intense IPAs or heavy stouts and thought, “Craft beer might not be for me.” Don’t give up just yet. Whether you’re transitioning from mass-produced lagers or looking to expand your palate, there are plenty of styles to ease you in without the overwhelming bitterness, alcohol content, or intensity craft beer can be known for. Here’s a guide to the best craft beers for beginners, along with a few tips for enjoying the journey.
Top Craft Beers for Beginners
Wheat Beers: Light, Soft, and Slightly Sweet
Wheat beers are a great place to start if you’re brand new to beer or if you prefer something light and refreshing. These beers are brewed with a high percentage of wheat and often have a smooth mouthfeel and a hazy appearance. Depending on the yeast used, you’ll notice subtle notes of citrus, banana, or spice. They’re easy to drink and pair well with food, making them a great gateway into craft brewing.
Blonde Ales: Crisp and Approachable
Often referred to as the “welcome mat” of the craft beer world, blonde ales are a great craft beer for beginners. With a clean, mild flavor and just a hint of hops, they’re perfect for someone used to lagers or lighter domestic beers. These beers are golden in color, slightly sweet, and low in bitterness, making them ideal for casual sipping on a sunny day.
Pilsners and Kölsches: Clean and Classic
If you like crisp lagers, pilsners and Kolsches are right up your alley. These styles are lager-like in their crispness but have a more nuanced flavor. Pilsners tend to be slightly hoppy with floral or spicy notes, while Kolsches are smooth, slightly fruity, and very easy to drink. Both are refreshing and not too heavy on the hops, which makes them an excellent entry point into the world of craft beer.
Pale Ales: A Gentle Introduction to Hops
Curious about hops but not quite ready for the bold bitterness an IPA brings? Try a pale ale. These beers strike a balance between malt and hops, offering a mix of floral, citrus, or piney aromas with a modest bitterness. Pale ales are a great way for craft beer beginners to ease into hoppier styles without diving headfirst into the deep end.
Amber and Red Ales: Malty and Smooth
If you prefer a richer, toastier flavor, ambers and red ales might be your go-to. These beers lean more toward the malty side, with notes of caramel, biscuit, and toffee. They have a flavor depth that’s satisfying and cozy while still being relatively light in bitterness and body, making them a solid craft beer for beginners.
Fruited Beers and Light Sours: Tart and Playful
These aren’t your typical beers, and that’s what makes them so great for people who say they don’t like beer. Fruited beers and lighter sour ales are perfect for those who enjoy tangy, sweet, or juicy flavors. These beers often use real fruit and special fermentation to create bright, refreshing brews that taste more like sparkling juice or cocktails than beer. They’re a fun and flavorful way to dip your toes into the craft beer scene.
Pro Tips for a First-Timer
Start with a flight: At your local Growler Guys, we offer smaller pours so you can try several styles without committing to a full pint.
Keep an open mind: Your tastes will evolve – what you don’t enjoy today may be your favorite next month.
Ask questions: The certified Beer Stewards at The Growler Guys are more than happy to recommend something based on your preferences.
Start Your Craft Beer Journey at The Growler Guys
Getting into craft beer doesn’t mean jumping straight into bitter IPAs or barrel-aged stouts. Start simple with approachable styles, find what you like, and enjoy the process. The Growler Guys is the perfect place for craft beer beginners. With our rotating tap list, there’s always something new and unique to try. Whether you’re sipping a fruity wheat beer or easing into a rich amber ale, The Growler Guys has a craft beer with your name on it. Stop in for a flight, pint, or growler fill today.
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