Buying Craft Beer 101

For quite some time now, craft beers have been all the rage. Craft beers have soared in popularity, mostly thanks to millennials. Millennials generally have more adventurous tastes in beer than the previous generation, meaning most would much rather drink a hoppy IPA than crack open a can of Coors Light or a bottle of Bud. Thanks to booming sales and popularity, there’s no shortage of craft beers available for you to purchase and try. The only downside? It can be a little overwhelming when trying to choose. Here are some of our best tips for buying craft beer:

Branch Out from the IPA

India Pale Ales are the most popular type of craft beer on the market, but you could be missing out on your next favorite brew if all you ever gravitate towards are IPAs. If you’re in a different city, try the beer that is popular in that area. Experiment every once in a while. Try something new. You might end up falling in love with the delicious clove flavors found in Hefeweizens (German wheat beer) and Abbey Ales, or the bright citrus notes found in Belgian wheat beers (Witbier). Sour beers are another type of craft brew gaining in popularity that’s definitely worth giving a try.

Purchase a Mixed Case

If you’re really torn on what to buy, instead of going all-in on a pack of one craft beer, purchase a mixed case and try one of each brew you’re interested in. This is also the best way to go if you’re considering hosting a craft brew tasting party (after the pandemic is over, of course).

Consider Canned Beer

Many “beer snobs” like to scoff at the idea of canned brews, feeling bottled beer is superior. Craft beer has embraced the can, and so should you! While many of the macro-brewers have ingrained in our heads that the can means cheap, it’s actually one of the best vessels for protecting and preserving your beer. While a glass bottle allows in light that could harm the beer, a can does no such thing, plus it’s easier to transport and open — an added bonus! Look at the Lower ABV Beers, Too Craft beers are known for their higher alcohol content, so some craft beer lovers look away from any brews with a lower ABV percentage. However, don’t give these lower ABV brews (often called “session” beers) the cold shoulder. Lowered alcohol content does not always equal watered down. There are many session beers that don’t sacrifice flavor, yet allow you to enjoy more of them over a period of time before feeling impaired, as you might with a high ABV brew.

Universal Fine Wine and Spirits is a family owned and operated business located just north of the Tampa Bay area in Holiday, Florida. We specialize in rare liquors, handcrafted wines, and craft beers as well as providing exceptional pricing on everyday staples. Our staff has over thirty years of combined beverage industry experience and take pride in taking extra special care of our customers. Stop in to see us or visit our website and learn about our flat rate shipping.