Maine Beers: Discovering the Best Brews of the Pine Tree State
Maine is known for its vibrant craft beer scene, with numerous breweries crafting outstanding beers that reflect the state’s natural beauty and innovative spirit.
From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and crisp lagers, Maine offers a diverse range of exceptional brews.
Here are ten of the best Maine beers you absolutely must try.
1. Allagash Brewing Company’s “Allagash White”
Allagash Brewing Company is a prominent name in Maine’s craft beer scene, and Allagash White is one of their flagship beers.
This Belgian-style Witbier is known for its refreshing and complex flavor profile.
- Style: Belgian Witbier
- ABV: 5.2%
- Description: Spicy and fruity with notes of citrus, coriander, and a hint of orange peel.
2. Bissell Brothers Brewing’s “The Substance”
Bissell Brothers Brewing’s The Substance is a highly regarded American IPA known for its balanced and hoppy flavor profile.
- Style: American IPA
- ABV: 6.5%
- Description: Juicy and hoppy with flavors of tropical fruit, citrus, and a smooth malt backbone.
3. Maine Beer Company’s “Lunch”
Maine Beer Company’s Lunch is a popular IPA that’s celebrated for its bright and hoppy character. It’s a favorite among IPA enthusiasts.
- Style: IPA
- ABV: 7.0%
- Description: Aromatic and hoppy with notes of pine, grapefruit, and a balanced malt finish.
4. Oxbow Brewing Company’s “Lupuloid”
Oxbow Brewing Company’s Lupuloid is a well-crafted American IPA with a unique blend of hop flavors and aromas.
- Style: American IPA
- ABV: 6.8%
- Description: Piney and citrusy with flavors of grapefruit, pine resin, and a touch of malt sweetness.
5. Shipyard Brewing Company’s “Export Ale”
Shipyard Brewing Company’s Export Ale is a classic offering that reflects the brewery’s commitment to quality and tradition.
- Style: Amber Ale
- ABV: 5.1%
- Description: Smooth and malty with flavors of caramel, toffee, and a hint of roasted malt.
6. Rising Tide Brewing Company’s “Daymark”
Rising Tide Brewing Company’s Daymark is a flavorful pale ale with a well-balanced hop profile and a refreshing taste.
- Style: Pale Ale
- ABV: 5.4%
- Description: Crisp and balanced with notes of citrus, pine, and a smooth malt backbone.
7. Geary’s Brewing Company’s “IPA”
Geary’s Brewing Company’s IPA is a traditional American IPA with a strong hop presence and a balanced finish.
- Style: IPA
- ABV: 5.8%
- Description: Hoppy and aromatic with flavors of pine, citrus, and a touch of caramel malt.
8. Austin Street Brewery’s “Bourbon Barrel-Aged Dark Ale”
Austin Street Brewery’s Bourbon Barrel-Aged Dark Ale is a rich and complex beer aged in bourbon barrels, adding depth and character.
- Style: Bourbon Barrel-Aged Dark Ale
- ABV: 8.0%
- Description: Bold and robust with flavors of bourbon, chocolate, coffee, and a hint of vanilla.
9. Foundation Brewing Company’s “Epiphany”
Foundation Brewing Company’s Epiphany is a Belgian-style Tripel that offers a unique and flavorful drinking experience.
- Style: Belgian Tripel
- ABV: 9.0%
- Description: Spicy and fruity with notes of pear, apple, and a touch of caramel sweetness.
10. Flight Deck Brewing’s “Albatross”
Flight Deck Brewing’s Albatross is a well-crafted Saison with a refreshing and complex flavor profile.
- Style: Saison
- ABV: 5.2%
- Description: Dry and spicy with flavors of pepper, citrus, and a hint of earthy funk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flagship beer of Allagash Brewing Company?
Answer: Allagash Brewing Company’s Allagash White is a Belgian-style Witbier known for its refreshing and complex flavors.
What makes Bissell Brothers Brewing’s The Substance popular?
Answer: The Substance is known for its juicy and hoppy flavor profile with notes of tropical fruit, citrus, and a smooth malt backbone.
What are the key characteristics of Maine Beer Company’s Lunch?
Answer: Lunch is celebrated for its bright and hoppy character with notes of pine, grapefruit, and a balanced malt finish.
What distinguishes Oxbow Brewing Company’s Lupuloid?
Answer: Lupuloid is known for its piney and citrusy flavors with notes of grapefruit, pine resin, and a touch of malt sweetness.
What is special about Austin Street Brewery’s Bourbon Barrel-Aged Dark Ale?
Answer: This dark ale is aged in bourbon barrels, resulting in bold and robust flavors of bourbon, chocolate, coffee, and vanilla.
Summary
Maine’s craft beer scene is rich and diverse, with breweries offering a range of exceptional beers that highlight the state’s brewing talent.
These top picks showcase some of the best beers Maine has to offer, reflecting the creativity and quality of its local breweries.
Enjoy exploring the flavorful world of Maine’s craft beer!