Craft Beer Conversion

Despite the exploding craft beer scene throughout the country and the never ending variety of beer styles that now exist, there are still those people out there who claim they “don’t like the taste of beer” or swear by only the standard macros. We know you’ve got at least one of these in your entourage, be it your Appletini-swilling girlfriend or your buddy who doesn’t leave the house without a case of Miller Lite by his side. Chances are, most of these people are simply uneducated about the vast variety of styles and flavors that exist in the beer spectrum. So we’ve compiled a list of a few brews that are most likely to convert even the biggest non-believers to fellow appreciators of the most versatile beverage in the world - BEER.

1. Lindeman’s Framboise (raspberry), Cassis (black currant), Pecheresse (peach), Pomme (apple), Kriek (cherry), or Faro: The fruit varieties are very mild and sweet, and are a great way to introduce non-beery beers to someone who tends to prefer fruity martinis or wine. Each of the varieties listed above are lambic beers with fruit or other infusions added. The Faro is a wild-fermented wheat beer using new and old lambics and candied sugar with a taste similar to a sweet sparkling wine. To learn more about the brewing process for this special variety of beer, click here. 

2. Blanche De Bruxelles: Though there are many different witbiers out there, we suggest avoiding the most commercially available - Blue Moon. Blanche De Bruxelles is our favorite witbier, and is unintimidating enough to serve to your friend who typically sticks with Miller Light or Michelob Ultra. This light, refreshing, 4.5% ABV witbier is made with coriander and orange peel which gives it a unique taste without an overpowering fruit flavor. Plus the peeing cherub on the label is a great conversation-starter.

3. Southern Tier Creme Brulee Imperial Milk Stout: This beer’s ABV is up there at 9.6%, but it tastes like a decadent milkshake laced with caramel, vanilla, and coffee flavors. Quite tasty but certainly not a session beer, so if you’re serving this to someone who’s not into beer, don’t expect them to want a whole pint of this stuff. Still, a great way to give a non-beer drinker a taste of the variety of craft beers that are out there.  

4. Duchesse De Bourgogne: This Flemish Red Ale has a fruity taste and moderate ABV (6%), but also a bit of complexity and a sour end. Some folks with less tolerant tastebuds may be turned off by the sour finish, but we’ve served this beer to friends and moms who don’t like beer at all, and received a great response. If this beer proves to be a hit for you, we also recommend Monk’s Cafe Flemish Red or Jolly Pumpkin La Roja. 

5. Brew Works Valley Golden Ale: This American Blonde Ale has been called a “gateway beer” by some. It cannot be purchased in bottles but you can find it on tap at any of the 3 Brew Works locations. Those with a taste for complex beers full of character may find this beer a little boring, but for those who are used to swilling macros this is a great stepping stone. It’s very mild and drinkable, has a low ABV of 4.7%, and is often recommended to new Brew Works customers who come into the brewpub asking the bartender for a light beer.

One great way to introduce different styles of beer to friends who are not really into the craft beer culture (yet) is to take them to a beer and food pairing or a sampling event. Wegmans Bethlehem and Allentown locations are both hosting a FREE beer and food pairing on Saturday, May 21 from 11am-3pm. Take your friends and show them how great beer can complement any meal. Or - stop by the Weyerbacher Brewery in Easton any Saturday between 12noon and 3pm for a FREE tour and tastings of all their beers. The Brew Works Allentown also holds FREE tours and tastings every Saturday from 12noon - 1:30pm, but you’ll have to contact them in advance to schedule your tour.