The beer scene finds itself in a weird space. Its economic struggles aren’t exactly a secret, and the road ahead appears murky and ripe for speculation. Yet some absolutes still persist despite the chaos: A properly brewed beer is delicious, accessible, and an excellent option to bring to a laid-back social gathering. There’s also an abundance of beer styles to consider, and that will never change regardless of where the industry’s winds blow.
Some beer categories are obviously more popular than others. So while brewers work on the next batch of hyped-up hazy IPAs to appease the masses, they may harbor a wish for customers to check out other niche styles. This could be a matter of personal preference, or it could come from a simple desire to share something cool with patrons.
Which beers should guests ask for more often when they’re in the mood for a proper pour? We asked 10 brewers to find out. Here’s what they had to say.
The beers people should order more, according to brewers:
- Baltic porters
- A reliable beer they order regularly
- Saisons
- Double IPAs
- Schwarzbier
- West Coast pilsner
- English bitters
- Pale ales
“I’ve always felt that Baltic porters deserve a wider place in the hearts — and glasses — of beer drinkers. Smooth, dark, and quietly complex, they offer rich notes of chocolate, toast, caramel, dried fruit, and a clean lager finish. Often overlooked in favor of louder styles and adjunct-laden alternatives, Baltic porters reward curious patrons by bridging the gap between stouts and lagers with sheer elegance. They are warming without being cloying and flavorful without inducing fatigue. As beer culture continues to mature and the weather grows cold, now is the perfect time to rediscover this classic style and invite more drinkers to appreciate its depth, balance, and timeless appeal.” —Dennis Maciupa, head brewer, Five Dimes Brewery, Red Bank, N.J.…