Certified beer cicerone Ethan Fixell knows that there are some beers every drinker should try. These beers are the basics that give you a baseline to test your palate and build on.
Whether you’re looking for a new beer or want to expand your craft beer horizons, this online liquor store has you covered.
Bell’s Two-Hearted Ale
In a beer world that can sometimes get bogged down in hyper-focus on hazy IPAs, Bell’s Two Hearted Ale serves as a reminder of what a truly balanced craft brew should look like.
Originally released in 1997, the American IPA is brewed with only Centennial hops and balances bitterness with citrus and pine notes. The beer is a favorite of many, including Dave Chappelle who once took a sip of it during a performance in Kalamazoo.
The brewery is incredibly choosy about its Centennial and has formed intense relationships with growers. In fact, Mallett says that the brewery annually buys north of half a million pounds of Centennial hops. The brewery tries to focus on local sources whenever possible and now gets much of the hops they use from Michigan growers that are part of MI Local. Visit to buy online.
Ommegang Three Philosophers
A Belgian-style blend of a strong malty ale and a cherry lambic, Three Philosophers is brewed with rich Belgian specialty malts. Its deep burgundy color and thick head evoke thoughts of a Belgian Trappist monastery. This beer pairs well with smoked foods and game meats like venison, duck, or elk.
Brewery Ommegang in Cooperstown, New York, has won awards for its Belgian-style beers and creative blends like this one. Its dark brew is a must-try for fans of complex Belgian ales. This strong ale is rich in roasted malt, brandied raisins, and chocolate. The flavor is sweeter than the aroma and has low hop bitterness. The finish is dry and warm. Check for craft beer delivery.
Night Shift Whirlpool Pale Ale
This hazy New England pale ale from Night Shift is made with wheat and oats, as well as Mosaic and Ella hops. This beer has a light body and is refreshing. It also has a citrusy taste and aroma. It pairs well with crunchy foods, such as fried chicken or grilled corn on the cob. It also pairs well with tangy cheese and fruity desserts.
Night Shift has experienced a lot of changes since it first opened in 2012. They once brewed a lot of barrel aged, sour, and Belgian styles, but found that customers want to try out new IPA options.
Dos Equis PBR
Dos Equis is a popular Mexican beer that’s easy to drink and pairs well with Mexican food. It’s also a great choice for impromptu pool parties and other social events. This golden lager has a mild palate and a clean finish that’s perfect for those who want to relax with a cold one.
This lager is brewed with malted barley, spring water, corn syrup, ascorbic acid, and hops. It’s bottom-fermented at lower temperatures, making it less acidic and bitter than other lagers.
This refreshing, crisp brew is low by volume and calories. Its crisp flavor profile makes it a good choice for pairing with strong-flavored Mexican dishes like tostadas and enchiladas. It’s also a popular option with grilled meats. The beer’s advertising campaign featuring actor Jonathan Goldsmith as the “Most Interesting Man in the World” made it a household name in the early twenty-first century.
Miller High Life
Miller High Life is a classic American beer that has been around since 1903. It is often called the Champagne of Beers, and its nickname was inspired by the beer’s sparkling clarity. It is brewed as a golden pilsner, and it uses light-stable Galena hops from the Pacific Northwest and select malted barley.
It is also known for its easy mouthfeel. This is thanks to the high carbonation in the beer. It is also a very light beer, which makes it perfect for beginners who are trying out craft beers.
Unlike most other beer, Miller High Life is served in clear bottles. This is because other glass types can cause the beer to get skunked. This is because UV rays can penetrate the beer and mess with its molecules.