The Ultimate Guide for Beer Enthusiasts

What Defines a Craft Beer?

Curious about what differentiates craft beers from mainstream options? The distinction hinges on three main criteria: their annual output is under 6 million barrels, less than 25% of the brewery is owned by a non-craft entity, and over half of their offerings are all-malt beers, indicating a commitment to superior ingredients.

Exploring Various Types of Craft Beer

BLONDES: With hues ranging from pale straw to vibrant gold and a light to medium hop character, these ales will resonate with fans of traditional American lagers. Many breweries debut their summer selections at the season's start, featuring blondes due to their refreshing, light body—perfect for sipping poolside or at the beach.

WHEAT ALES: If they're not blondes, the other summer offerings are likely wheat beers. These brews often carry a subtle banana flavor accompanied by notes of clove and vanilla.

PALE ALES & IPAS: Typically found in amber to copper shades, these beers spotlight hops and represent the classic ale style. If you prefer the crispness of brut champagne and drier wines, these flavors are probably for you. Included in this category are India Pale Ales, which dominate entries at prestigious beer competitions like The Great American Beer Festival.

BELGIANS: While Belgian chocolates are world-renowned, it’s the beer that truly showcases Belgium’s brewing prowess. Known for their Trappist-style ales and monastery traditions, Belgium boasts its own unique beer category. Noteworthy options include the iconic Delirium brand and fruity lambics. If you enjoy fruity or mixed cocktails, Belgian beers might be your ideal match. For a twist on a classic, consider a fruity Belgian brew paired with champagne for a delightful Sunday brunch.

PORTERS AND STOUTS: Embrace the dark side with these flavorful beers, which often feature rich notes of coffee and chocolate. Some are lighter in body yet hop-forward, while others offer a fuller experience with bolder flavors and higher alcohol content.

This provides the fundamentals to kickstart your journey through various craft beer options. As with any culinary adventure, tasting is essential. Consider ordering a beer flight the next time you’re aboard the Dinogo Escape to discover which flavor suits you best. With the diverse and unique flavors emerging from both local and national microbreweries, there’s surely something for everyone. Cheers!