Iowa Beers: Discovering the Best Brews of the Hawkeye State
Iowa’s craft beer scene is thriving with a wide range of innovative and high-quality beers.
From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing lagers, Iowa breweries offer something for every beer enthusiast. Explore some of the best beers that Iowa has to offer.
Here are ten of the best Iowa beers you absolutely must try.
1. Toppling Goliath Brewing Co.’s “PseudoSue Pale Ale”
Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. is renowned for its exceptional beers, and PseudoSue Pale Ale is a standout. This beer is celebrated for its hop-forward character and balanced malt profile.
- Style: Pale Ale
- ABV: 5.8%
- Description: Hoppy and aromatic with notes of citrus, pineapple, and a smooth malt backbone.
2. Exile Brewing Co.’s “Ruthie Pale Ale”
Exile Brewing Co.’s Ruthie Pale Ale is a well-crafted pale ale that has gained a loyal following. It’s known for its clean and refreshing taste with a balanced hop profile.
- Style: Pale Ale
- ABV: 5.2%
- Description: Crisp and balanced with flavors of grapefruit, pine, and a light malt sweetness.
3. Millstream Brewing Co.’s “Iowa Pale Ale”
Millstream Brewing Co.’s Iowa Pale Ale is a classic beer that showcases the brewery’s dedication to quality and tradition. It’s a great example of a well-rounded pale ale.
- Style: Pale Ale
- ABV: 5.3%
- Description: Balanced with notes of citrus, pine, and a smooth malt character.
4. Peace Tree Brewing Co.’s “Rye IPA”
Peace Tree Brewing Co.’s Rye IPA is a distinctive beer with a unique blend of rye malt and hoppy bitterness. It’s known for its spicy and aromatic character.
- Style: IPA
- ABV: 6.2%
- Description: Spicy and hoppy with flavors of citrus, pine, and a touch of rye spice.
5. Firetrucker Brewery’s “Twisted Angel”
Firetrucker Brewery’s Twisted Angel is a Belgian-style tripel with a complex and fruity profile. It’s a great example of the brewery’s skill in crafting unique and flavorful beers.
- Style: Tripel
- ABV: 9.0%
- Description: Fruity and spicy with notes of pear, apple, and a touch of clove.
6. Barn Town Brewing’s “Tropical Pale Ale”
Barn Town Brewing’s Tropical Pale Ale is a juicy and aromatic beer with a strong hop presence. It’s known for its vibrant tropical fruit flavors and smooth finish.
- Style: Pale Ale
- ABV: 5.5%
- Description: Juicy and hoppy with flavors of mango, pineapple, and a balanced malt backbone.
7. Big Grove Brewery’s “Lawnmower Lager”
Big Grove Brewery’s Lawnmower Lager is a refreshing and easy-drinking lager that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s known for its crisp and clean flavor profile.
- Style: Lager
- ABV: 4.8%
- Description: Crisp and clean with flavors of toasted bread, floral hops, and a smooth finish.
8. SingleSpeed Brewing Co.’s “Morning Wood”
SingleSpeed Brewing Co.’s Morning Wood is a rich and robust coffee stout with a strong malt character. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a hearty and flavorful stout.
- Style: Coffee Stout
- ABV: 7.5%
- Description: Rich and bold with flavors of coffee, chocolate, and roasted malt.
9. Confluence Brewing Co.’s “Tropical Pale Ale”
Confluence Brewing Co.’s Tropical Pale Ale is a flavorful and aromatic beer with a strong hop presence and tropical fruit notes. It’s a great choice for hop enthusiasts.
- Style: Pale Ale
- ABV: 5.6%
- Description: Hoppy and juicy with flavors of pineapple, mango, and a smooth malt finish.
10. Toppling Goliath Brewing Co.’s “King Sue”
Toppling Goliath Brewing Co.’s King Sue is an exceptional IPA with a strong hop character and a well-rounded flavor profile. It’s a must-try for those who appreciate bold and hoppy beers.
- Style: IPA
- ABV: 7.0%
- Description: Bold and hoppy with notes of grapefruit, pine, and a balanced malt sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flagship beer of Toppling Goliath Brewing Co.?
Answer: Toppling Goliath Brewing Co.’s PseudoSue Pale Ale is celebrated for its hop-forward character and balanced malt profile.
What makes Exile Brewing Co.’s Ruthie Pale Ale a popular choice?
Answer: Ruthie Pale Ale is known for its clean and refreshing taste with a balanced hop profile.
What are the unique characteristics of Peace Tree Brewing Co.’s Rye IPA?
Answer: Rye IPA features a unique blend of rye malt and hoppy bitterness with spicy and aromatic flavors.
What distinguishes Firetrucker Brewery’s Twisted Angel?
Answer: Twisted Angel is a Belgian-style tripel with a complex fruity and spicy profile, featuring notes of pear, apple, and clove.
What is special about Barn Town Brewing’s Tropical Pale Ale?
Answer: Tropical Pale Ale is known for its juicy hop presence and vibrant tropical fruit flavors.
Summary
Iowa’s craft beer scene is rich with diverse and innovative brews that reflect the state’s growing beer culture.
These top picks highlight some of the best beers Iowa has to offer, showcasing the creativity and quality of its breweries.
Enjoy exploring the flavorful world of Iowa’s craft beer!