As Independence Day approaches, Americans across the nation prepare to celebrate their rich history, freedom, and unity. One time-honored tradition is raising a glass filled with the finest patriotic American beers. These brews not only embody the artistry and craftsmanship of the country’s vibrant brewing industry but also pay homage to the spirit and values that define the United States. In this article, we will take a delightful journey through the world of American beer, exploring a selection of brews that proudly display the colors of the American flag: red, white, and brews.
Red Brews: When it comes to red brews, American craft breweries showcase their creativity and mastery by offering a diverse range of flavors and styles. One standout example is the American amber ale—a beer that embodies the warm hues of a sunset and captivates the senses with its caramel malt backbone and hints of toasty goodness. These brews, with their balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness, reflect the resilience and pioneering spirit of the American people.
Two excellent examples of the American amber ale are:
Boont Amber Ale by Anderson Valley Brewing Company
This inviting and highly-drinkable amber ale is rich and satisfying while maintaining a crisp character. Its blend of four hops and notes of baking spices make this brew a favorite.
Alaskan Amber Ale by Alaskan Brewing Company
While on a cruise to Alaska this spring I had the pleasure of drinking this highly-revered ale from the source. With it nutty yet hoppy character this amber is deservedly at the top of many beer drinker’s lists including mine.
Additionally, red IPAs make a splash in the beer scene with their deep red color and assertive hop profiles. Bursting with citrusy, piney, and floral notes, these brews pay tribute to the adventurous nature and innovation that have shaped America’s history. Each sip reveals a harmonious interplay between the caramel maltiness and the hoppy bitterness—a perfect embodiment of the nation’s unwavering spirit.
Here’s a red IPA to try.
Dawn of the Red by Ninkasi Brewing Company.
At 66 IBUs and 7% ABV this brew will certainly wake up your taste buds. You’ll find hints of pineapple and a pleasing malty backbone on this one.
White Brews: Crisp, Clean, and Refreshing (250 words): White or wheat beers hold a special place in the hearts of beer enthusiasts, particularly during the summer months. These brews, characterized by their hazy appearance and light, fluffy mouthfeel, offer a refreshing respite from the heat. Among the most beloved American white beers is the classic Belgian-style witbier. Brewed with ingredients such as coriander and orange peel, this style exudes delicate flavors of citrus and spice, evoking a sense of adventure and exploration.
An examples of a great American witbier to look for is:
White by Allagash Brewing Company
A good witbier is characterized by a hazy appearance, fluffy mouthfeel, and hints of corriander and orange peel. White from Allagash has all that in spades.
Another refreshing choice is the American wheat beer, which showcases a lighter body and a clean, crisp finish. These brews often feature a subtle wheat sweetness and a gentle hint of hops, creating a harmonious balance that mirrors the nation’s pursuit of freedom and harmony. From beach picnics to backyard barbecues, these white brews embody the essence of summer and complement the festive spirit of Independence Day.
A great American wheat ale for summer is:
Oberon by Bell’s Brewery
Oberon is a seasonal wheat ale available March through August (except in Florida where it is available year-round). It packs a bit more spice than most beers in this catagory and is the perfect companion to a summer picnic.
Brews of Blue: While the American flag may not have a blue beer, the spirit of creativity and uniqueness in the American brewing landscape allows us to explore a variety of exceptional brews. Blueberry-infused ales or lagers, for example, capture the essence of the nation’s abundant natural resources and the wild landscapes that stretch from coast to coast. These beers feature a pleasant tartness, alongside the lusciousness of ripe blueberries, delivering a delightful sensory experience.
Furthermore, craft breweries across the country offer an array of experimental brews that challenge the boundaries of traditional beer styles. From blue-hued sours to barrel-aged wonders, these innovative concoctions embody the American spirit of freedom, individuality, and pushing the envelope. They are a testament to the creative prowess of American brewers and their willingness to explore new frontiers in the art of brewing.
Here’s a blueberry beer you might want to try:
Blue by Sweetwater Brewing Company
Blue is a light-bodied wheat ale with a refreshing blueberry flavor that is easy to drink and delicious at the same time. Drop a few fresh blueberries in it and sip on the front porch.
As Independence Day approaches, let us not only embrace the fireworks and parades but also raise our glasses to the vibrant and patriotic American beers that symbolize the spirit of the nation. From the bold red brews that mirror resilience, to the crisp
