Avery New World Porter
Matthew Steinberg, cofounder and brewer of Exhibit ‘A’ Brewing in Framingham, Massachusetts
“I have always been a fan of this bold classic beer. It entered my world in winter 2003 while I was working at a brewpub on Martha’s Vineyard. I knew that Avery produced killer beers with their wide selection and IPAs (they introduced me to my first taste of Chinook), so I had great hopes for New World and knew it would live it up to my other favorite porters such as Stovepipe and Anchor. It did and still does in my mind!”
Flat 12 Biewerks Pogue’s Run Porter
Dan Valas, owner and brewer of Great Crescent Brewery in Aurora, Indiana
“I really like a good, solid, porter brewed to style. It’s more difficult to consistently brew a beer to style, and I appreciate it when someone does. In my opinion Pogue’s Run Porter from Flat 12 Bierwerks in Indianapolis is a terrific porter. It’s a really great example of the style, 5.5 percent ABV, and 34 IBUs. The chocolate malts and caramel come through but not to the point where they take over. I consider it a go-to when I am out and about traveling around Indiana.”
Samuel Smith's Taddy Porter
Peter Velez, brewmaster of Sibling Revelry Brewing in Westlake, Ohio
“The beer strikes the right balance among malt sweetness, strength, and roasted character plus a robust sweetness that is perfectly in tune with everything else going on in the beer. As a brewer, I have always used Taddy as my goal when brewing a porter, and every time I feel like I get closer and enjoy the research.”
Cherry St. Brewing Cooperative Chief Sawnee Stash Coconut Porter
Spencer Nix, cofounder and CEO of Reformation Brewery in Woodstock, Georgia
“Cherry St.’s Nick Tanner crafts a magnificent coconut porter. The toasted coconut, caramelized dates, and vanilla bean are just the right amount of creativity balanced with enough discipline to the style that makes this porter truly fantastic. I like to pair Chief Sawnee Stash Coconut Porter to any moment from fall through winter.”
Harviestoun Old Engine Oil
Chris Cuzme, founder and brewer of Fifth Hammer Brewing in Queens, New York
“This is a long-time, and perhaps all-time, favorite porter of mine. In contrast to many drier and hoppier U.S. versions, which I also do sincerely adore, Old Engine Oil leans toward chocolate, licorice, coffee, and malt that balance light roast with incredible grace. And with a magnificent mouthfeel (thanks to oats), the beer does not finish heavy while moderate alcohol presence is disguised.”