Alaska Beers: Exploring the Best Brews of the Last Frontier
Alaska’s craft beer scene may be relatively young compared to some other states, but it has quickly gained a reputation for producing exceptional brews.
From robust porters to crisp lagers, Alaska’s breweries offer a range of flavors that reflect the state’s rugged and adventurous spirit.
Here are some of the best Alaska beers that you absolutely must try.
Anchorage Brewing’s “Mosaic IPA”
Anchorage Brewing has made a name for itself with innovative and flavorful beers.
The Mosaic IPA is a standout, showcasing the unique and vibrant characteristics of mosaic hops. It’s a must-try for IPA enthusiasts.
- Style: IPA
- ABV: 6.8%
- Description: A juicy IPA with intense tropical fruit flavors and a hint of pine.
49th State Brewing’s “Midnight Sun Cream Ale”
49th State Brewing is known for its excellent range of beers, and the Midnight Sun Cream Ale is a particularly enjoyable option.
This cream ale is smooth and easy-drinking, perfect for a relaxing evening.
- Style: Cream Ale
- ABV: 5.2%
- Description: A smooth and creamy ale with a touch of sweetness and a crisp finish.
Silver Gulch Brewing’s “Oosik Pale Ale”
Silver Gulch Brewing, based in Fox, offers the Oosik Pale Ale, a well-crafted beer that balances hoppy bitterness with malt sweetness.
It’s a great choice for those who appreciate a flavorful pale ale.
- Style: Pale Ale
- ABV: 5.5%
- Description: A balanced pale ale with a pleasant hop bitterness and malt sweetness.
Alaskan Brewing Co.’s “Amber Ale”
Alaskan Brewing Co. is one of the state’s most well-known breweries, and their Amber Ale is a classic.
It offers a rich malt character with a subtle hop presence, making it a versatile and enjoyable beer.
- Style: Amber Ale
- ABV: 5.3%
- Description: Rich and malty with notes of caramel and toffee, balanced by a mild hop bitterness.
Broken Tooth Brewing’s “Beard Beer”
Broken Tooth Brewing’s Beard Beer is a unique and intriguing option.
This beer is brewed with yeast collected from the beard of one of the brewery’s founders, adding a distinctive twist to the brewing process.
- Style: Belgian-style Ale
- ABV: 7.0%
- Description: A complex Belgian-style ale with fruity esters and a touch of spiciness.
Midnight Sun Brewing’s “Panty Peeler”
Midnight Sun Brewing’s Panty Peeler is a strong and flavorful tripel that stands out in Alaska’s craft beer scene.
With its fruity and spicy profile, it’s a bold choice for those who enjoy higher alcohol content beers.
- Style: Tripel
- ABV: 8.0%
- Description: Fruity and spicy with a smooth, warming finish.
King Street Brewing’s “Hazy IPA”
King Street Brewing, based in Anchorage, has made waves with its Hazy IPA.
This beer features a hazy appearance and a juicy, hop-forward profile that’s perfect for fans of New England-style IPAs.
- Style: Hazy IPA
- ABV: 6.0%
- Description: Juicy and hazy with prominent tropical fruit flavors and a smooth finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flagship beer of Anchorage Brewing?
Answer: Anchorage Brewing’s Mosaic IPA is a standout beer known for its vibrant tropical fruit flavors and hoppy bitterness.
What makes 49th State Brewing’s Midnight Sun Cream Ale unique?
Answer: Midnight Sun Cream Ale is appreciated for its smooth and creamy texture with a touch of sweetness, making it an easy-drinking choice.
What are the flavor characteristics of Silver Gulch Brewing’s Oosik Pale Ale?
Answer: The Oosik Pale Ale is balanced with a pleasant hop bitterness and malt sweetness, offering a flavorful and enjoyable pale ale experience.
What is notable about Alaskan Brewing Co.’s Amber Ale?
Answer: Alaskan Brewing Co.’s Amber Ale features a rich malt character with caramel and toffee notes, balanced by a mild hop bitterness.
What is the story behind Broken Tooth Brewing’s Beard Beer?
Answer: Beard Beer is unique because it is brewed with yeast collected from the beard of one of the brewery’s founders, adding a distinctive element to the brewing process.
Summary
Alaska’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of styles and flavors, from juicy IPAs to rich amber ales.
Whether you’re exploring the Last Frontier or a local looking to sample new brews, these top picks showcase some of the best beers Alaska has to offer.
Enjoy the bold and adventurous flavors that reflect the spirit of this unique state.