10 Craft Beers You’ve Never Heard Of But Should Definitely Taste

Craft beer has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. With a focus on quality ingredients, unique flavors, and innovative brewing techniques, these small-batch brews celebrate creativity and passion. While many people gravitate toward well-known breweries and their flagship beers, a treasure trove of exceptional craft beers remains undiscovered by the average beer enthusiast.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to 10 craft beers you’ve never heard of, yet should definitely taste. From hop-heavy ales to malt-forward stouts, prepare yourself to embark on a tasting adventure that showcases the artistry of craft beer.

1. Oxbow Brewing Company – Farmhouse Ale

Located in Newcastle, Maine, Oxbow Brewing Company is renowned for its unique farmhouse ales that pay homage to traditional Belgian styles. Their Farmhouse Ale, with its fruity ester notes and funky, tart yeast profile, is a refreshing and lively brew perfect for warm afternoons.

This unfiltered, dry-hopped ale presents a complex flavor profile that balances citrusy hops and a light, grassy finish, making it ideal for craft beer lovers eager to explore rustic flavors with a modern twist.

2. Jester King Brewery – Atrial Rubicite

Based in Austin, Texas, Jester King Brewery specializes in mixed fermentation and barrel-aged beers. Atrial Rubicite is a stunningly complex, fruit-forward sour ale made with blackberries, imparting a deep burgundy hue. The beer showcases the perfect marriage of tartness and sweetness, and its effervescent quality makes for an incredibly refreshing experience.

Each sip reveals layers of fruity complexity, with a subtle oak character that adds depth to the brew. Rebel against party-line drinking and give this exquisite beer a try!

3. Equilibrium Brewery – Fractal Series

Equilibrium Brewery, located in Middletown, New York, has earned legendary status in the craft beer world for its innovative and hop-centric brews. Their Fractal Series features a rotating rotation of experimental IPAs that showcase a blend of new hop varietals. Each Fractal release varies significantly, encouraging craft beer enthusiasts to try them all.

When tasting a Fractal IPA, expect a mind-bending experience with bold flavors ranging from pineapple and peach to dank resin and citrus. The complexity and balance in these brews will definitely satisfy hop lovers!

4. Other Half Brewing – All Galaxy Everything

Other Half Brewing, based in Brooklyn, New York, is known for pushing boundaries with hop-forward beers. All Galaxy Everything features the legendary Galaxy hop, which brings bright citrus flavors coupled with pleasant pine notes. Pouring a hazy golden hue, this double IPA is bursting with tropical fruit notes.

This explosive hop goodness is rounded out by a soft mouthfeel, making it dangerously drinkable. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in this hop lover’s dream!

5. Tired Hands Brewing Company – HopHands

Tired Hands Brewing Company from Ardmore, Pennsylvania, offers an approachable yet flavor-packed option with HopHands, a session IPA that defies the notion that lower ABV can’t provide big flavor. This beer showcases a medley of hops, delivering juicy notes of grapefruit and citrus balanced with a light malt backbone.

HopHands is perfect for those warm days when you want refreshing and full-flavored without the higher alcohol content. The balance of hops and body makes it a perfect offering for hop enthusiasts seeking lower ABV options.

6. Prairie Artisan Ales – Bomb!

If you’re into stouts, Prairie Artisan Ales from Oklahoma is a must-try. Their Bomb! stout is an imperial milk stout crafted with coffee, cacao nibs, vanilla beans, and chili peppers. The result is a velvety-smooth, rich beer packed with flavors that excite the palate.

From the decadent chocolate notes to the subtle kick from the chili, this stout is a dessert in a glass. Perfect for those who enjoy rich, flavorful brews, Bomb! offers a unique, memorable experience.

7. Cloudwater Brew Co. – DIPA

Cloudwater Brew Co., from Manchester, England, focuses on modern interpretations of classic styles. Their Double IPA (DIPA) is a vibrant aromatic brew bursting with fresh hop flavors reminiscent of stone fruits, citrus, and tropical notes. The soft mouthfeel and moderate bitterness create a dangerously drinkable DIPA.

With a focus on seasonal ingredients, Cloudwater’s DIPA is a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation, and it’s undoubtedly worth a place in your tasting lineup.

8. Schilling Beer Co. – Northern Hemisphere

Schilling Beer Co. from Littleton, New Hampshire, brews Northern Hemisphere, a wonderful take on a traditional German Kölsch. This light, crisp beer is packed with subtle floral and citrus notes, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion.

Perfect for summertime picnics or backyard barbecues, Northern Hemisphere is exceptionally easy to drink while still offering a touch of complexity that will keep craft beer drinkers coming back for more.

9. Green Man Brewery – The Business

Green Man Brewery, based in Asheville, North Carolina, is home to The Business, a delightful take on an English-style pale ale. This beer balances caramel malt sweetness with vibrant hop character.

The result is a well-structured and balanced beer that spans a variety of occasions – perfect for those who enjoy layered flavors melded with an engaging bitterness.

10. 4 Noses Brewing Company – Tickle Parts

To wrap up our list, look no further than Tickle Parts from 4 Noses Brewing Company in Broomfield, Colorado. This New England-style IPA is known for its smooth, hazy appearance and delightful juiciness.

With notes of tangerine, pineapple, and stone fruits, Tickle Parts is packed with tropical goodness, making it a dessert-like experience that’s hard to resist.

If you’re looking to broaden your craft beer horizons, keep an eye out for Tickle Parts, and get ready to be mesmerized by its hop-driven flavors.

Conclusion

These 10 craft beers showcase the innovative essence of craft brewing and offer unique flavor profiles that go beyond the mainstream. Each of these brews reflects the passion and artistry of their respective breweries, making them essential tasting experiences for any beer lover.

As you explore the diverse world of craft beer, don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone and seek out these hidden gems. The next sip of craft beer may just surprise and delight your senses!