With 3800 beers poured at the Great American Beer Festival, deciding what to drink can be a bit overwhelming. Here are ten we tried Thursday night that we think you should seek out.
Speciation Artisan Ales
This small Michigan producer of wild and mixed culture ales has nailed the balance between acidity, funk, and fruit. The beers have a distinct character all their own—start with Genetic Drift, and work your way through the Incipient variations.
Live Oak Brewing
In the ballsiest move we’ve seen at GABF in a long time, Live Oak brought not one, but FOUR smoked beers to the festival. We know what you’re thinking—“Smoked beers?” Yes, smoked beers. The Lichtenhainer will challenge any preconception you’ve ever had about beers made with smoked malt, but start with the Heller Rauch.