Sipping on Tradition: A Guide to Craft Beer Flagship Beers

Staples of the Craft Beer World: A Look at Flagship Beers and What Makes Them Great

Craft beer has taken the world by storm in recent years, and with so many different styles and flavors to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. One great place to begin your craft beer journey is with flagship beers.

Flagship beers are the beers that a craft brewery is known for. They are the brews that are always on tap, the ones that the brewery is most proud of, and the ones that are most widely distributed. Flagship beers can come in a variety of styles, from IPAs to stouts to lagers, but what they all have in common is that they represent the essence of the brewery.

If you’re new to craft beer, trying a brewery’s flagship beer is a great way to get a sense of what they’re all about. For example, Sierra Nevada’s Pale Ale is a classic flagship beer that has been around since the 1980s. It’s a hoppy, yet balanced, pale ale that showcases the brewery’s commitment to using only the highest quality ingredients.

Another great flagship beer to try is New Belgium’s Fat Tire Amber Ale. This beer has been a staple of the craft beer scene since the 1990s and is known for its smooth, caramel-like flavors and its easy-drinking nature. It’s a great beer to pair with just about any type of food, from burgers to pizza to spicy Mexican dishes.

One of the things that makes flagship beers so special is that they often have a rich history and a loyal following. These beers are often the result of years of experimentation and refinement, and they represent the heart and soul of the brewery. Many craft beer enthusiasts have a favorite flagship beer that they always turn to, whether they’re out at a bar or enjoying a cold one at home.

If you’re interested in trying some flagship beers, the best place to start is by visiting your local brewery. Most craft breweries offer flights or tasters, which allow you to sample a variety of their beers. Be sure to ask about their flagship beer and give it a try. You never know, it might just become your new favorite brew.

Flagship beers are an important part of the craft beer landscape. They represent the best that a brewery has to offer and are often the result of years of hard work and experimentation. If you’re new to craft beer or just looking to try something new, give a brewery’s flagship beer a try. You might just discover your new favorite brew.

Exploring the Heart of Craft Beer: Five Must-Try Flagship Beers

The American craft beer scene is constantly evolving, with new breweries and beers emerging all the time. However, there are a few flagship beers that have become staples of the craft beer world. Here are some of the most popular American craft beer flagship beers:

1. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale – Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Chico, CA Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is one of the original American craft beers, and it’s still one of the most popular. The beer is brewed with a blend of Cascade hops and two-row pale malt, giving it a nice citrusy aroma and a balanced flavor profile. Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. has since expanded their offerings, but the Pale Ale remains their flagship beer.
2. Boston Lager – Samuel Adams, Boston, MA Samuel Adams Boston Lager is a classic American lager that is brewed with two-row malt and Noble hops. The beer has a rich, malty flavor with a slightly hoppy finish. The beer helped put Samuel Adams on the map, and it remains their flagship beer to this day.
3. Fat Tire Amber Ale – New Belgium Brewing Co., Fort Collins, CO Fat Tire Amber Ale is a Belgian-style ale that is brewed with a blend of malts and hops. The beer has a nice caramel aroma and a slightly sweet finish. The beer was first brewed in 1991 and has since become one of the most popular craft beers in the country.
4. Two Hearted Ale – Bell’s Brewery, Kalamazoo, MI Two Hearted Ale is an American-style IPA that is brewed with 100% Centennial hops. The beer has a nice citrusy aroma and a strong hoppy bite, making it a favorite among hopheads. The beer has won numerous awards over the years and remains a flagship beer for Bell’s Brewery.
5. Stone IPA – Stone Brewing, Escondido, CA Stone IPA is an American-style IPA that is brewed with a blend of hops that give it a nice citrusy aroma and a strong hoppy bite. The beer is well-balanced and has a smooth finish. Stone Brewing has since expanded their offerings, but the Stone IPA remains their flagship beer.

These are just a few of the most popular American craft beer flagship beers. There are many other outstanding beers out there, so be sure to explore the craft beer world and find your own favorites.

Craft Beers Around The Beer Thrillers

Let’s take a closer look at a few of the states closest to The Beer Thrillers.

Pennsylvania Craft Beer Flagships

Pennsylvania is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with breweries of all sizes scattered throughout the state. Many of these breweries have flagship beers that have become local favorites, and even achieved national recognition. Here are just a few of the standout Pennsylvania flagship beers that are worth trying.

1. Yuengling Lager – Yuengling Brewery, Pottsville, PA Yuengling Lager is an iconic beer that has been brewed in Pennsylvania since 1829. It’s a classic American lager that is known for its smooth, refreshing taste and its affordable price point. Yuengling is the oldest continuously operating brewery in the United States, and their flagship beer remains a staple in bars and refrigerators across the state.
2. Victory Prima Pils – Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, PA Victory Brewing Company’s Prima Pils is a German-style pilsner that has won numerous awards over the years. It’s a crisp, clean beer with a nice hoppy bite that sets it apart from other pilsners. Prima Pils is a great beer to enjoy on a hot summer day, and it pairs well with a variety of foods, from grilled chicken to seafood.
3. Troegs Nugget Nectar – Troegs Independent Brewing, Hershey, PA Troegs Nugget Nectar is an imperial amber ale that is brewed with Nugget, Warrior, and Tomahawk hops. It’s a bold, flavorful beer with a nice balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness. Nugget Nectar is released once a year in February, and it’s a highly anticipated beer among craft beer enthusiasts in Pennsylvania and beyond.
4. Yards Philadelphia Pale Ale – Yards Brewing Company, Philadelphia, PA Yards Philadelphia Pale Ale is a hop-forward beer that is brewed with American hops and English malt. It’s a well-balanced beer that is perfect for those who love hops but don’t want an overwhelming bitterness. Yards is a beloved Philadelphia brewery, and their flagship beer can be found on tap in many bars and restaurants throughout the city.
5. Weyerbacher Merry Monks – Weyerbacher Brewing Company, Easton, PA Weyerbacher Merry Monks is a Belgian-style tripel that is brewed with coriander, orange peel, and Belgian yeast. It’s a strong beer with a fruity aroma and a spicy finish. Merry Monks is a great beer to sip on a cold winter night, and it’s one of the most popular beers from this Easton-based brewery.

Pennsylvania is home to some incredible flagship beers that are worth seeking out. From classic lagers to bold imperial ales, there’s something for every beer lover in the Keystone State. Whether you’re a Pennsylvania native or just passing through, be sure to try some of these standout flagship beers from some of the best breweries in the state.

Harrisburg Specific Flagship Beers

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and its surrounding areas are home to some fantastic craft breweries with flagship beers that have become local favorites. Here are some of the most popular craft beer flagship beers near Harrisburg that you should try:

1. Troegs Perpetual IPA – Troegs Independent Brewing, Hershey, PA Troegs Perpetual IPA is a bold and hoppy beer that is brewed with a blend of American, German, and English hops. It’s a year-round beer that is widely available in the Harrisburg area and beyond. Troegs is a must-visit brewery for any craft beer enthusiast in the area.
2. Appalachian Trail Blonde – Appalachian Brewing Company, Harrisburg, PA Appalachian Trail Blonde is a light and refreshing beer that is perfect for a hot summer day. It’s an easy-drinking beer that has a slight sweetness and a hint of citrus. Appalachian Brewing Company has been a Harrisburg staple since 1997, and their flagship Blonde is a crowd-pleaser.
3. Pizza Boy Sunny Side Up – Pizza Boy Brewing Co., Enola, PA Pizza Boy Sunny Side Up is a coffee stout that is brewed with Ethiopian coffee beans. It’s a rich, flavorful beer that has a smooth finish. Pizza Boy Brewing Co. is located just outside of Harrisburg, and their Sunny Side Up is a standout beer that has won numerous awards.
4. Millworks Pale Ale – The Millworks Brewery, Harrisburg, PA Millworks Pale Ale is a hoppy beer that is brewed with Cascade and Citra hops. It’s a balanced beer that has a nice citrus flavor and aroma. The Millworks Brewery is located in a historic building in Harrisburg, and their Pale Ale is a great beer to enjoy with some locally-sourced food from their restaurant.
5. Ever Grain Biggie – Ever Grain Brewing Co., Camp Hill, PA Ever Grain Biggie is a double IPA that is brewed with a blend of American and Australian hops. It’s a strong beer that has a nice citrus flavor and a bitter finish. Ever Grain Brewing Co. is located in Camp Hill, just outside of Harrisburg, and their Biggie is a popular beer that is worth seeking out.

Maryland Flagship Beers

Maryland has a vibrant craft beer scene that is home to many fantastic breweries with flagship beers that have become local favorites. From classic lagers to hoppy IPAs, there’s something for every beer lover in the Old Line State. Here are just a few of the standout Maryland flagship beers that you should try.

1. Heavy Seas Loose Cannon – Heavy Seas Beer, Baltimore, MD Heavy Seas Loose Cannon is an IPA that is brewed with three different hop varieties. It’s a bold and flavorful beer that has a nice citrus aroma and a strong hoppy bite. Heavy Seas Beer is located in Baltimore, and their flagship Loose Cannon is a must-try for any hophead.
2. Flying Dog Gonzo – Flying Dog Brewery, Frederick, MD Flying Dog Gonzo is a porter that is brewed with coffee and chocolate. It’s a rich and flavorful beer that has a smooth finish. Flying Dog Brewery is located in Frederick, and their flagship Gonzo is a favorite among beer enthusiasts in Maryland and beyond.
3. Union Craft Brewing Duckpin – Union Craft Brewing, Baltimore, MD Union Craft Brewing Duckpin is a session IPA that is brewed with five different hop varieties. It’s a flavorful beer that has a nice balance of hop bitterness and citrus flavor. Union Craft Brewing is located in Baltimore, and their flagship Duckpin is a great beer to enjoy on a hot summer day.
4. Jailbreak Brewing Company Feed the Monkey – Jailbreak Brewing Company, Laurel, MD Jailbreak Brewing Company Feed the Monkey is a hefeweizen that is brewed with banana and clove. It’s a refreshing beer that has a fruity aroma and a slight sweetness. Jailbreak Brewing Company is located in Laurel, and their flagship Feed the Monkey is a popular beer that is perfect for those who want something a little different.
5. Evolution Craft Brewing Company Lot No. 3 – Evolution Craft Brewing Company, Salisbury, MD Evolution Craft Brewing Company Lot No. 3 is an IPA that is brewed with three different hop varieties. It’s a well-balanced beer that has a nice hoppy bite and a slight sweetness. Evolution Craft Brewing Company is located in Salisbury, and their flagship Lot No. 3 is a standout beer that is worth seeking out.

Maryland is home to some fantastic flagship beers that are worth trying. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs or smooth porters, there’s something for everyone in the Maryland craft beer scene. Be sure to check out some of these popular flagship beers the next time you’re in the area.

New Jersey Flagship Craft Beers

When it comes to craft beer, New Jersey may not be the first state that comes to mind. However, the Garden State has a thriving craft beer scene that has produced some truly outstanding flagship beers. Here are just a few New Jersey flagship beers that you should try.

1. Kane Head High – Kane Brewing Company, Ocean Township, NJ Kane Head High is an American-style IPA that is bursting with hoppy goodness. It’s a bold and flavorful beer that has a nice citrusy aroma and a strong hop bite. Kane Brewing Company is located in Ocean Township, and their flagship Head High is a must-try for any hophead.
2. Carton Boat – Carton Brewing Company, Atlantic Highlands, NJ Carton Boat is a session ale that is brewed with a unique blend of hops. It’s a light and refreshing beer that has a crisp finish. Carton Brewing Company is located in Atlantic Highlands, and their flagship Boat is a favorite among beer enthusiasts in New Jersey and beyond.
3. River Horse Tripel Horse – River Horse Brewing Company, Ewing Township, NJ River Horse Tripel Horse is a Belgian-style tripel that is brewed with three different types of malt and two types of hops. It’s a complex and flavorful beer that has a fruity aroma and a smooth finish. River Horse Brewing Company is located in Ewing Township, and their flagship Tripel Horse is a standout beer that is worth seeking out.
4. Flying Fish Hopfish – Flying Fish Brewing Company, Somerdale, NJ Flying Fish Hopfish is an American-style IPA that is brewed with a blend of five different hops. It’s a well-balanced beer that has a nice hoppy bite and a slightly sweet finish. Flying Fish Brewing Company is located in Somerdale, and their flagship Hopfish is a popular beer that is perfect for any occasion.
5. Cape May IPA – Cape May Brewing Company, Cape May, NJ Cape May IPA is an American-style IPA that is brewed with a blend of four different hops. It’s a bold and flavorful beer that has a nice hoppy aroma and a strong bitter bite. Cape May Brewing Company is located in Cape May, and their flagship IPA is a standout beer that is worth trying.

Delaware Flagship Beers

Delaware may be a small state, but it’s home to a thriving craft beer scene. The state is home to a variety of craft breweries, many of which have produced some truly outstanding flagship beers. Here are just a few Delaware flagship beers that you should try.

1. Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA – Dogfish Head Brewery, Milton, DE Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA is a classic American-style IPA that has been a flagship beer for the brewery since it opened in 1995. The beer is brewed with a blend of hops that give it a nice citrusy aroma and a strong hoppy bite. The beer is well-balanced and has a smooth finish, making it a favorite among hopheads and beer enthusiasts alike.
2. Iron Hill Bedotter – Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, Wilmington, DE Iron Hill Bedotter is a Belgian-style tripel that is brewed with three different types of malt and two types of hops. The beer has a fruity aroma and a slightly sweet finish, making it a favorite among fans of Belgian-style beers. Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant has locations throughout the mid-Atlantic region, but the flagship Bedotter can only be found in Delaware.
3. Revelation Brown Ale – Revelation Craft Brewing Company, Rehoboth Beach, DE Revelation Brown Ale is a smooth and flavorful beer that has a nutty aroma and a slightly sweet finish. The beer is brewed with a blend of malts and hops that give it a nice balance of flavors. Revelation Craft Brewing Company is located in Rehoboth Beach, and their flagship Brown Ale is a standout beer that is worth seeking out.
4. Fordham Copperhead – Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company, Dover, DE Fordham Copperhead is an American-style amber ale that is brewed with a blend of five different malts and two types of hops. The beer has a nice caramel aroma and a smooth, slightly sweet finish. Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company is located in Dover, and their flagship Copperhead is a popular beer that is perfect for any occasion.
5. 3rd Wave Beach Blonde – 3rd Wave Brewing Company, Delmar, DE 3rd Wave Beach Blonde is a light and refreshing beer that has a crisp finish. The beer is brewed with a blend of malts and hops that give it a nice balance of flavors. 3rd Wave Brewing Company is located in Delmar, and their flagship Beach Blonde is a popular beer that is perfect for a hot summer day.

In Summary of Flagship Craft Beers

In addition to being an important part of a brewery’s identity, flagship craft beers also play a crucial role in the business strategy of many breweries. These beers are often the backbone of a brewery’s sales, providing a steady source of revenue and serving as a gateway to their other offerings. By establishing a strong flagship beer, breweries can build a loyal following and gain brand recognition in a crowded market.

However, it’s important for breweries to not rest on their laurels and continue to innovate and experiment with new styles and flavors. While flagship beers may be the bread and butter of a brewery’s business, it’s the constant evolution and experimentation that keeps the craft beer industry exciting and vibrant. So whether you’re a fan of classic flagship beers or love trying out new and unique brews, the world of craft beer always has something new to offer.

Flagship craft beers are an essential part of the craft beer world, representing the identity and character of a brewery. They have become staples of the industry, and many have gained a following among craft beer enthusiasts. These beers are a great way to experience the unique flavors and styles that each brewery has to offer. Whether it’s Sierra Nevada Pale Ale or Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, flagship beers are a great starting point for exploring the world of craft beer. So next time you’re at a brewery or beer store, be sure to try out some of their flagship offerings and discover what makes them stand out in the crowded craft beer scene. Cheers!

A Series of Craft Beer Articles

This is just one of several in a series of over arching ‘craft beer’ related articles. Several alone in a ‘flagship’ series. In the next few weeks there will be some more that come out as well. I would like to have this general level of different ‘craft beer articles’ that everyone can kind of jump to and read and use for informative purposes, and give a better understanding for the other articles on the site.

Some of these articles are about definitions (like “What is Craft Beer?“) and others are about Craft Breweries in general like the Top 50 Producing Craft Breweries, etc.

• The Battle of the Breweries (2023) Winner Is
• Top 50 Overall Brewing Companies in the United States (2023)
• Top 50 Craft Brewing Companies in the United States (2023)
• What is Craft Beer?
• I’ve Missed Drinking (A Look at Non Alcoholic Beers)
• The Rise of Non-Alcoholic Beer: A Guide to the Best Non Alcoholic Brews
• Best Non-Alcoholic Beers For 2021
• Craft Beer 101: Your Guide to the World of Small – Batch Brewing
• How to Build Your Own Homebrew: A Comprehensive Guide for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
• Brewing a Traditional Lithuanian Farmhouse Beer – Keptinis
• Human Robot – Milko Pour – A Look at Milk Pours
• Hemp and Beer – Happy 4:20 Day
• Map of Maine Breweries
• Map of New Hampshire Breweries
• Map of Vermont Breweries
• Sipping on Tradition: A Guide to Craft Beer Flagship Beers
• Discovering the Best Independent Breweries with Beer Drop Craft Beer Subscription Service
• Breaking Down the Buzz: The Health Benefits of Craft Beer

Thank You For Reading

Thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed the article, quite a few new articles from this weekend, from Friday, and from Amy’s weekly column, as well as tonight, are going up, so make sure you follow along with us.

Cheers All!

-B. Kline

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