Florida Beers: Discovering the Best Brews of the Sunshine State
Florida’s craft beer scene is as vibrant and diverse as its landscape. From tropical IPAs to rich stouts, the state’s breweries offer a wide array of exceptional beers that reflect its unique climate and culture.
Here are ten of the best Florida beers you absolutely must try.
1. Cigar City Brewing’s “Jai Alai IPA”
Cigar City Brewing is renowned for its Jai Alai IPA, a standout in Florida’s craft beer scene. This IPA is celebrated for its bold hop character and citrus-forward flavor.
- Style: IPA
- ABV: 7.5%
- Description: A hoppy IPA with flavors of grapefruit, pine, and a hint of caramel malt.
2. Tripping Animals Brewing Co.’s “Sangría IPA”
Tripping Animals Brewing Co.’s Sangría IPA is a unique beer that combines the traditional IPA with fruity sangría flavors. It’s a refreshing and innovative take on the IPA style.
- Style: IPA with Fruit
- ABV: 6.8%
- Description: Juicy and fruity with notes of red wine, citrus, and a touch of hop bitterness.
3. MIA Beer Co.’s “La Original IPA”
MIA Beer Co.’s La Original IPA is a well-crafted beer with a balanced hop profile and a smooth malt finish. It’s a great example of the brewery’s commitment to quality.
- Style: IPA
- ABV: 6.5%
- Description: Balanced with flavors of pine, citrus, and a clean malt character.
4. Florida Beer Company’s “Miami Pale Ale”
Florida Beer Company’s Miami Pale Ale is a classic pale ale with a refreshing and crisp profile. It’s a great option for those who enjoy a well-balanced beer.
- Style: Pale Ale
- ABV: 5.5%
- Description: Crisp and clean with floral hop notes and a smooth malt finish.
5. 4 Rivers Smokehouse’s “Smokehouse Porter”
4 Rivers Smokehouse’s Smokehouse Porter is a robust beer with a rich, smoky flavor. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a hearty, malty brew.
- Style: Porter
- ABV: 6.0%
- Description: Rich and smoky with flavors of roasted malt, coffee, and dark chocolate.
6. Green Bench Brewing Co.’s “Space Pepper”
Green Bench Brewing Co.’s Space Pepper is a distinctive beer that incorporates black pepper for a unique twist. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their brew.
- Style: Saison
- ABV: 6.5%
- Description: Spicy and fruity with notes of black pepper, citrus, and a dry finish.
7. Wicked Weed Brewing’s “Pineapple Paradise”
Wicked Weed Brewing’s Pineapple Paradise is a tropical fruit IPA that offers a refreshing and exotic flavor experience. It’s a great choice for enjoying in Florida’s warm weather.
- Style: IPA with Fruit
- ABV: 6.0%
- Description: Tropical and fruity with prominent pineapple flavors and a hoppy finish.
8. The Tank Brewing Co.’s “Tank Punch”
The Tank Brewing Co.’s Tank Punch is a fruity and flavorful beer with a blend of tropical flavors. It’s a great example of the brewery’s innovative approach to brewing.
- Style: Fruit Beer
- ABV: 5.8%
- Description: Fruity and refreshing with a mix of tropical flavors and a smooth finish.
9. Orlando Brewing’s “Organic Pale Ale”
Orlando Brewing’s Organic Pale Ale is a well-balanced and flavorful beer made with organic ingredients. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate environmentally friendly brewing practices.
- Style: Pale Ale
- ABV: 5.0%
- Description: Balanced with floral hop notes and a smooth malt character, featuring organic ingredients.
10. Coppertail Brewing Co.’s “Free Dive IPA”
Coppertail Brewing Co.’s Free Dive IPA is a session IPA that offers a hoppy and flavorful experience without the high alcohol content. It’s a great choice for a laid-back drinking session.
- Style: Session IPA
- ABV: 4.2%
- Description: Light and refreshing with vibrant hop flavors and a clean, crisp finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flagship beer of Cigar City Brewing?
Answer: Cigar City Brewing’s Jai Alai IPA is a flagship beer known for its bold hop character and citrus-forward flavor.
What makes Tripping Animals Brewing Co.’s Sangría IPA unique?
Answer: Sangría IPA combines traditional IPA flavors with fruity sangría notes for a refreshing and innovative twist.
What are the flavor characteristics of MIA Beer Co.’s La Original IPA?
Answer: La Original IPA is balanced with pine and citrus flavors, complemented by a smooth malt finish.
What distinguishes Florida Beer Company’s Miami Pale Ale?
Answer: Miami Pale Ale is known for its crisp and clean profile with floral hop notes and a smooth malt finish.
What is unique about 4 Rivers Smokehouse’s Smokehouse Porter?
Answer: Smokehouse Porter features rich, smoky flavors with notes of roasted malt, coffee, and dark chocolate.
Summary
Florida’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of flavors and styles, reflecting the state’s vibrant culture and climate.
These top picks highlight some of the best beers the Sunshine State has to offer, showcasing the creativity and quality of its breweries.
Enjoy exploring the rich and varied world of Florida’s craft beer!