Top Emerging Beer Styles for 2024

As a beer enthusiast, I’m always excited to discover new and interesting beer styles that are on the rise. With each passing year, the craft beer industry evolves, introducing us to emerging flavors and trends that keep our taste buds intrigued. So, what can we expect in 2024? Let’s dive in and explore the top emerging beer styles that are set to make waves in the coming year.

Key Takeaways:

2024 is shaping up to be a year of exciting beer trends and emerging styles.
Craft brewers are embracing the roots of classic beer styles, while also pushing the boundaries of creativity.
From West Coast IPAs to sour beers, there’s a style to suit every palate.
Experimentation with flavors and brewing techniques is at the forefront of craft brewing.
Low alcohol beers are becoming increasingly popular, catering to those seeking a lighter drinking option.

West Coast IPA

Known for their bold hop profiles and crisp bitterness, West Coast IPAs are poised to make a triumphant return in 2024. Craft brewers are embracing the roots of this iconic style, emphasizing a clean malt backbone that allows the aromatic hops to shine. Expect piney, citrusy, and resinous notes alongside a striking, snappy bitterness that harken back to the early days of the craft beer movement.

Craft beer trends in 2024 are all about reimagining and reinventing classic styles, and the West Coast IPA is no exception. Craft brewers are pushing boundaries by experimenting with different combinations of hops, resulting in unique flavor profiles that cater to the evolving tastes of beer enthusiasts. With a focus on bold, hop-forward brews, West Coast IPAs are becoming the go-to choice in the craft beer scene.

What sets West Coast IPAs apart from other beer styles is the emphasis on hop flavors and aromas. Craft brewers carefully select hops known for their assertive characteristics, such as Cascade, Centennial, and Simcoe. These hops impart distinct piney, citrusy, and resinous notes that create a sensory experience like no other.

In addition to the bold hop profiles, West Coast IPAs also exhibit a clean malt backbone that supports and enhances the hop flavors. Craft brewers have mastered the art of balancing the sweetness of the malt with the bitterness of the hops, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that keeps beer enthusiasts coming back for more.

Hop Profiles of Key West Coast IPA Varieties

IPA Variety	Hop Profile	Common Flavors
Lagunitas IPA	Citra, Cascade, Centennial	Grapefruit, pine, floral
Ballast Point Sculpin IPA	Citra, Simcoe, Amarillo	Mango, peach, apricot
Stone IPA	Chinook, Centennial, Magnum	Resin, pine, citrus

These examples showcase the diversity within the West Coast IPA style, with each variety offering its own unique hop profile and flavor profile. Craft brewers continuously experiment with different hop combinations, pushing the boundaries of what a West Coast IPA can be.

As craft beer trends continue to evolve, West Coast IPAs remain a staple in the craft beer movement. The combination of bold hop profiles, clean malt backbones, and unique flavors make West Coast IPAs a must-try for any craft beer enthusiast.

Craft Lagers

Craft Lagers are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, and it’s no surprise why. Almost every craft brewery today offers at least one lager option on their diverse tap lists. As a craft beer enthusiast, I’m thrilled to see this classic beer style receiving the attention it deserves.

What sets craft lagers apart is the unwavering commitment to quality ingredients and a meticulous brewing process. Craft brewers understand that to create exceptional lagers, they must start with the finest malt, hops, and yeast. These carefully selected ingredients come together to produce a beer that is both refined and full of character.

One of the hallmarks of craft lagers is their balanced flavors. Unlike other beer styles that lean heavily on hops or malt, craft lagers strive for harmony. They offer a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate, from the gentle sweetness of malt to the subtle bitterness of hops. This careful balance creates a beer that is incredibly drinkable and satisfying.

But craft lagers aren’t just limited to being light and refreshing. Craft brewers have taken this timeless style and infused it with creativity, producing a spectrum of flavors. From traditional and crisp pilsners to more complex and malt-forward variations like Märzen and Bock, craft lagers offer something for everyone.

So, the next time you’re at your local craft brewery, be sure to explore their lager options. You may be surprised by the range of flavors and the craftsmanship that goes into each pint.

Lager Style	Description
Pilsner	A classic lager with a crisp, clean taste and a moderate hop bitterness.
Märzen	Often enjoyed during Oktoberfest, this lager is characterized by its rich maltiness and smooth finish.
Vienna Lager	A malt-forward lager with a toasty flavor and a touch of sweetness.
Helles	A pale lager with a delicate balance of bready maltiness and mild hop bitterness.
Dunkel	A dark lager with layers of toffee, caramel, and chocolate flavors.

Fruit Beer

Fruit beer is an exciting trend that is capturing the attention of craft brewers and beer enthusiasts alike. Craft brewers are constantly pushing the boundaries of flavors, and fruit beer is a prime example of their innovative spirit. By incorporating different fruits into their brewing process, craft brewers are creating unique and refreshing beers that offer a delightful twist to traditional beer styles.

From raspberry and peach to mango and watermelon, the possibilities are endless when it comes to the variety of fruits that can be used in fruit beer. Each fruit brings its own distinctive flavor and aroma, resulting in a beer that is both delicious and intriguing.

The beauty of fruit beer lies in its ability to balance the natural sweetness of the fruit with the bitterness and complexity of the beer. Craft brewers carefully select the fruits and experiment with different brewing techniques to create a harmonious fusion of flavors. The result is a beer that not only quenches your thirst but also tantalizes your taste buds.

Incorporating Fruit into Brewing Process

Craft brewers have embraced the challenge of incorporating fruit into their brewing process. They have developed various methods to extract the essence of the fruit and infuse it into the beer. Some brewers ferment the fruit alongside the malt and hops, while others add the fruit during the secondary fermentation process.

This experimentation with different fruit additions and brewing techniques gives craft brewers the opportunity to showcase their creativity and passion. It also allows them to offer beer lovers an entirely new and exciting drinking experience.

The Rise of Innovative Flavors

The popularity of fruit beer can be attributed to the craft brewers’ dedication to creating innovative flavors. By using fruits that are not commonly associated with beer, they are able to surprise and delight beer enthusiasts with unexpected taste profiles.

Craft brewers are constantly exploring new combinations of fruits and experimenting with different styles of beer. This continuous pursuit of innovation has resulted in a wide range of fruit beer offerings that cater to different palates and preferences. Whether you prefer a tart and tangy beer or a fruity and sweet one, you’re sure to find a fruit beer that suits your taste.

Craft Beer Trends in 2024

Fruit beer is expected to be one of the craft beer trends that will continue to grow in popularity in 2024. Craft breweries across the country are embracing this trend and incorporating fruit into their brewing process. As beer enthusiasts become more adventurous in their taste preferences, craft brewers are rising to the occasion to deliver unique and exciting flavors.

So, the next time you’re in search of a refreshing and flavorful beer, be sure to try a fruit beer from your favorite craft brewery. It’s a delightful way to explore new tastes and support the creativity of craft brewers.

Experimental Beers

When it comes to pushing the boundaries of flavor and creativity, craft brewers are leading the way with their experimental beers. These innovative brews are breaking the traditional molds of brewing, incorporating unconventional ingredients and unique brewing techniques to create one-of-a-kind flavors.

From aged beers that develop complex flavors over time to sake-yeast beers that infuse a delicate essence, the experimental beer scene is full of surprises. Craft brewers are also exploring the world of wild beers, harnessing the power of wild yeast and bacteria to create funky and tart brews that dance on the palate.

Another exciting trend in experimental beers is the use of fresh hops. These beers showcase the vibrant and aromatic qualities of hops in their purest form, capturing the essence of the harvest season. With each sip, you’ll experience the bright, resinous flavors that can only come from freshly picked hops.

So, if you’re a beer enthusiast looking for an adventurous drinking experience, experimental beers are a must-try. These unique brews offer a journey into uncharted territory, where every sip is a discovery of new and remarkable flavors.

Take a look at the table below for a glimpse into some popular experimental beers and the unique ingredients and flavors they bring to the table:

Experimental Beer	Key Ingredients	Flavor Profile
Funky Farmhouse Ale	Brettanomyces yeast	Earthy, funky, and dry with a touch of fruity esters
Chocolate Covered Cherry Stout	Cherries, cacao nibs	Rich, chocolatey, and tart, reminiscent of a decadent dessert
Smoked Porter with Chipotle Peppers	Chipotle peppers, smoked malt	Smoky, spicy, and robust with a lingering heat
Hibiscus and Lime Gose	Hibiscus flowers, lime zest, sea salt	Tangy, floral, and refreshing with a hint of saltiness

Belgian-Style Ales

If you’re a craft beer lover, Belgian-style ales are likely on your radar. These unique brews offer a taste experience unlike any other, with a wide range of flavors and aromas that captivate the senses.

Belgian-style ales are known for their yeast character, which brings out fruity esters and spicy phenols. This yeast adds a distinct complexity to the beer, creating a flavor profile that is both intriguing and satisfying. Combined with a balance of malt sweetness, these ales offer a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to please the palate.

There are several styles of Belgian ales to explore, each with its own distinct characteristics. Let’s take a closer look:

1. Witbier

Refreshing and light-bodied, Witbier is a Belgian wheat beer that is often brewed with coriander and orange peel. It offers a smooth and slightly tart flavor profile, with hints of spice and citrus.

2. Saison

Saisons are farmhouse ales that were traditionally brewed in Belgium for seasonal farmworkers. These beers are known for their fruity and spicy flavors, with a dry and refreshing finish.

3. Dubbel

Dubbels are amber-colored ales with a rich malty sweetness. They often have notes of dark fruit, caramel, and spices, offering a complex and robust flavor profile.

4. Tripel

Tripels are strong golden ales that pack a punch. They are characterized by their fruity and spicy yeast flavors, along with a notable alcohol warmth.

5. Quadrupel

Quadrupels are the big brothers of Belgian-style ales, known for their full-bodied richness and higher alcohol content. They often feature flavors of dark fruit, caramel, and molasses.

Whether you’re a seasoned Belgian ale enthusiast or new to the style, exploring the diverse world of these craft beers is a journey worth embarking on. From the refreshing Witbier to the bold Quadrupel, each Belgian-style ale offers a unique and delicious experience for beer lovers everywhere.

Sour Beers

Sour beers have gained significant popularity in recent years and are expected to continue their rise in 2024. Craft breweries are using various fermentation processes to create these tart and acidic brews, resulting in a wide range of unique flavors. From Berliner Weisse and Gose to Flanders Oud Bruin and Lambic, sour beers offer a refreshing and tangy alternative to traditional beer styles.

Unique Flavors to Savor

Berliner Weisse: This German-style sour beer is known for its light body, high carbonation, and refreshingly sour taste. The addition of fruity syrups or extracts, such as raspberry or woodruff, adds a unique twist to this traditional style.
Gose: Originating from Leipzig, Germany, Gose is a sour and slightly salty beer style. It often features coriander and sea salt, giving it a distinctive flavor profile that is both tangy and savory.
Flanders Oud Bruin: Hailing from Belgium, Flanders Oud Bruin is a rich and malty sour beer known for its dark appearance and complex flavors. It offers a delicate balance of sourness and caramel sweetness, with hints of dark fruit and oak aging.
Lambic: Lambic beers are produced through spontaneous fermentation, relying on wild yeast strains found in the Senne Valley of Belgium. These beers are often aged for extended periods, resulting in complex flavors that exhibit tartness, funk, and distinct characteristics of the local terroir.

Fermentation Process

The fermentation process is key to achieving the unique and sour flavors in these beers. Craft breweries employ various techniques, including barrel aging, blending, and the use of specific strains of yeast and bacteria such as Brettanomyces and Lactobacillus. These microorganisms introduce acidity and complexity during fermentation, creating the characteristic tartness and flavors found in sour beers.

Exploring the World of Sour Beers

Whether you’re a seasoned sour beer enthusiast or new to the style, there’s a wide variety of sour beers to explore and enjoy. Craft breweries around the world are crafting their own interpretations, pushing the boundaries of flavor and experimentation. From the fruity and effervescent Berliner Weisse to the complex and aged Flanders Oud Bruin, there’s a sour beer out there waiting to delight your taste buds.

Sour Beer Style	Country of Origin	Key Characteristics
Berliner Weisse	Germany	Light-bodied, high carbonation, fruity
Gose	Germany	Sour, slightly salty, coriander and sea salt
Flanders Oud Bruin	Belgium	Dark appearance, complex flavors, sour-sweet balance
Lambic	Belgium	Spontaneous fermentation, tart, funky, terroir-driven

Low Alcohol Beers

As we become more health-conscious, the demand for low alcohol beers is on the rise. Craft breweries are stepping up to the plate, offering a wide range of session beers and low ABV options that don’t compromise on flavor. These beers provide a refreshing alternative for beer enthusiasts who want to enjoy the taste of craft beer without the high alcohol content.

Whether you’re planning an extended drinking session or simply seeking a lighter option, low alcohol beers are the perfect choice. Craft breweries prioritize taste and quality, ensuring that these low ABV brews still deliver a flavor punch that satisfies the palate.

Here are some reasons why low alcohol beers are trending in 2024:

1. Health and Wellness

In our increasingly health-conscious society, many individuals are seeking ways to make healthier choices without sacrificing their love for beer. Low alcohol beers provide a solution by offering a lighter option that aligns with health and wellness goals. These beers allow you to enjoy the social aspect of drinking without the high alcohol content.

2. Extended Drinking Sessions

Whether you’re hanging out with friends at a bar or enjoying a backyard barbecue, low alcohol beers are ideal for extended drinking sessions. With a lower ABV, you can pace yourself without worrying about the effects of consuming high amounts of alcohol. It’s the perfect opportunity to savor the flavors of craft beer over a longer period.

3. Flavor Diversity

Don’t let the term “low alcohol” fool you – these beers still pack a flavorful punch. Craft breweries are known for their commitment to quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques, ensuring that low alcohol beers are just as interesting and complex as their higher alcohol counterparts. From hop-forward pale ales to malt-focused stouts, you can find a diverse range of flavors within the low ABV category.

So, if you’re looking for a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on taste, give low alcohol beers a try. Craft breweries are leading the way in producing session beers and low ABV options that cater to the evolving preferences of beer enthusiasts.

Some Popular Low Alcohol Beers

Beer Name	Style	ABV (%)
All Day IPA	IPA	4.7
Guinness Draught	Dry Stout	4.2
Firestone Walker Easy Jack	Pale Ale	4.0
Boulevard Easy Sport	Gose	4.1
Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier Alkoholfrei	Non-Alcoholic Wheat Beer	0.5 (Non-Alcoholic)

Conclusion

As we step into 2024, the craft beer industry continues to evolve, introducing new and exciting beer styles that capture the attention of beer enthusiasts. The future of brewing is a kaleidoscope of flavors and innovation, offering something for every palate.

The resurgence of West Coast IPAs brings back the bold hop profiles and crisp bitterness that made this style a favorite among craft beer lovers. Craft brewers are embracing their roots, showcasing the aromatic hops and clean malt backbones that define this iconic style.

At the same time, experimental beers push the boundaries of creativity with unconventional ingredients and brewing techniques, delivering one-of-a-kind flavors and memorable drinking experiences. From aged beers to wild concoctions, craft brewers are constantly pushing the envelope to create unique and exciting brews.

But it’s not just the extreme flavors that are shaping the future of brewing. Craft lagers, fruit beers, Belgian-style ales, sour beers, and low alcohol options are all gaining traction in the craft beer scene. These emerging beer styles offer a diverse range of taste experiences, from refreshing lagers to tangy sours and everything in between.

The future of brewing is bright, with craft beer trends in 2024 showcasing the industry’s commitment to quality, creativity, and pushing boundaries. So grab a pint and embark on a journey through the world of emerging beer styles. Cheers to the flavors and innovations that lie ahead!

FAQ

What are the top emerging beer styles for 2024?

The top emerging beer styles for 2024 include West Coast IPA, craft lagers, fruit beer, experimental beers, Belgian-style ales, sour beers, and low alcohol beers.

What is West Coast IPA?

West Coast IPA is a beer style known for its bold hop profiles and crisp bitterness. Craft brewers are emphasizing a clean malt backbone that allows the aromatic hops to shine, resulting in piney, citrusy, and resinous notes with a striking, snappy bitterness.

What are craft lagers?

Craft lagers are undergoing a renaissance with craft breweries offering a variety of lagers on their tap lists. Craft brewers focus on quality ingredients, innovative techniques, and balance to create craft lagers that range from light and refreshing to complex and malt-forward.

What is fruit beer?

Fruit beer is gaining popularity among craft brewers, offering a refreshing twist to traditional beer styles. Craft breweries are experimenting with various fruit additions such as raspberry, peach, mango, and watermelon to create innovative and flavorful beers.

What are experimental beers?

Experimental beers are unique brews that incorporate unconventional ingredients and brewing techniques. Craft brewers create one-of-a-kind flavors with aged beers, sake-yeast beers, wild beers, and fresh hop beers, offering beer enthusiasts an exciting and adventurous drinking experience.

What are Belgian-style ales?

Belgian-style ales are a favorite among craft beer lovers due to their wide range of flavors and aromas. These beers feature fruity esters, spicy phenols, and a balance of malt sweetness. Belgian-style ales include Witbier, Saison, Dubbel, Tripel, and Quadrupel, each offering its own unique characteristics.

What are sour beers?

Sour beers have gained significant popularity in recent years and are expected to continue their rise in 2024. Craft breweries use various fermentation processes to create tart and acidic brews, resulting in a wide range of unique flavors. Sour beer styles include Berliner Weisse, Gose, Flanders Oud Bruin, and Lambic.

What are low alcohol beers?

Low alcohol beers are becoming more prevalent in the craft beer scene, catering to the increasing focus on health and wellness. Craft breweries produce session beers and low ABV options that still pack a flavor punch. These beers allow beer enthusiasts to enjoy the taste of craft beer without the high alcohol content.

What can we expect for the future of brewing?

As we step into 2024, the craft beer industry continues to evolve. From the resurgence of West Coast IPAs to the creativity of experimental beers, the future of brewing is full of flavors and innovation. Whether you prefer hop-forward IPAs or unique sours, there’s a beer trend in 2024 to suit every palate.