Funk Factory Geuzeria Meerts
J. Wilson, Executive Director of the Iowa Brewers Guild
“I realized that I don’t live close enough to Madison, Wisconsin, this summer when I had my first taste of Funk Factory Geuzeria’s Meerts. Historically noted as the second runnings of lambic, the little-produced style as brewed by Levi Funk is tart and lemony with notes of hay and wood. Funk does fruited iterations as well, but the straight version is where it’s at. Foeder-aged, this sessionable, 4 percent ABV beer is ultra-refreshing and packed with layers of character.”
Crooked Stave Keller Kölsch
Rob Fullmer, Executive Director of the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild
“It’s easy to get wrapped around the axle when faced with the daunting list of Brett and barrel-aged beers at the Crooked Stave Taproom (Denver, Colorado), so how about ordering a beer to have while you’re thinking about the beer you’re going to have? I often lead with their Keller Pils or more recently the Keller Kölsch. It’s unfiltered, softer, and a touch fruity sweet. It’s easy on the brain if you’re still focused on your next beer, but it’s complex enough to have two or three without regret.”
Chimay Tripel (White)
Sean Nordquist, Executive Director of the Florida Brewers Guild
“Few breweries are more iconic than Belgium’s Bières de Chimay, one of eleven Trappist breweries in the world. Chimay Tripel (White) is a standout of the style, bringing spice and orange peel to the nose and a full, smooth mouthfeel on the tongue. The higher alcohol is well hidden beneath a balance of softly sweet malt and mild hops bitterness.”