Ode to Craft Beer

So anyone that knows me will attest that I really like beer.  This wasn't always the case.  I could not even sip beer well until I was over 21, but it has made its way into my life and now I am even studying to become a Cicerone (beer Sommelier).  So here is my little ode to craft beers and I have picked out my personal favorites to share (starting from light to dark) ;)

 Pilsner

Mama's Little Yellow Pills

Oskar Blues

 

This beer is light, crisp and refreshing.  A spin on czech-style pilsners and if you normally drink lighter beers or lagers, I would suggest starting with this beer.

Pale Ale

Mirror Pond 

Deschutes

 
This pale ale is very drinkable if you like pales yet has more character than the pale most people know, Sierra Nevada.  It is well balanced between the carmel malts and piney hops.  Very smooth and nice.

Red Ale

Red Rocket

Bear Republic

This has been one of my favorite beers for a couple of years now. It has typical characteristics of an American Amber/Red but it is amazing! The carmel malts and the bitter hops are a perfect combination.  As you drink the beer, you will taste the sweet and dry at different times within a single sip. 

Belgian

Adoration

Ommegang

  

 This is a Belgian Strong Dark Ale and fantastic!!! It is brewed in New York and is malty and sweet with tastes of dark fruit, spices (coriander and clove) and is fairly creamy (as belgians are).  It is perfect to drink at night when it's a little chilly outside.

IPA

Sculpin

Ballast Point

When it comes to IPAs, people either love them, or hate them, there is really no in-between.  While Pliny the Elder used to be my favorite (don't worry, I still think it's great), it has given way to Sculpin.  This is a double IPA so it is still full of flavor with citrus and pine hops, but this IPA has a taste of apricot in it which makes it unique and amazing! If you like IPAs, please try this immediately. 

Porter

Victory at the Sea

Ballast Point

I normally don't love stouts or porters (unless it's the Anderson Valley Oatmeal Stout...yum!), but this Imperial Porter is incredibly complex and flavorful and not just chocolatey or coffee-like.  This is a thick, full flavored beer with hints of coffee, chocolate, vanilla, almond, and wood dancing around together on your taste buds.  Give it a try-it is considered a world-class beer.

Well, these are my favorites right now.  What are some of yours?