10 Beer Trends We Can’t Stand Anymore – Do You Agree?

Imagine walking into a brewery and being greeted by an overwhelming menu of high ABV brews, fruity sours, or slushy concoctions.

For some, these trends are a dream, but for others, they’re becoming unbearable.

We asked our Facebook community a simple question: “What’s the most overrated beer trend?” The responses were passionate, humorous, and sometimes brutally honest.

Here are the trends that beer lovers just can’t stand anymore.

Top 10 Overrated Beer Trends

1. Over-Hopped Beers

Craft beers with excessively high IBUs topped the list of gripes. Many felt breweries were adding hops just for the sake of it, sacrificing balance and drinkability.

The intention may have been to cater to hop enthusiasts, but for others, the result is a palate-wrecking experience that detracts from the enjoyment of the beer itself.

This trend, according to fans, has turned many craft offerings into a competition of intensity rather than flavor.

“High ABV just to have ABV and over-hopped to the point of tasting like pine needles.” – Jason S.

2. Craft Beer Snobbery

The elitism surrounding craft beer culture made some people roll their eyes. While craft beer has done wonders for the industry, some felt the attitude associated with it alienates drinkers who enjoy simpler brews.

This exclusivity can make people feel judged for their preferences, turning what should be a welcoming community into one that’s intimidating for newcomers.

“Craft beer in general. Sometimes, I just want a beer that tastes like beer!” – Tony T.-A.

[Are you a beer snob?]

3. Slushy Sours

While some love their colorful, frozen beer treats, others find this trend too far removed from traditional brewing.

These drinks are often seen as novelty items, prioritizing visual appeal over taste. For traditionalists, the idea of blending beer with ice and fruity syrups is a betrayal of brewing’s rich heritage.

“Sours. And ‘slushy’ sours. I know people love them, but it’s just not beer anymore to me.” – Billy S.

4. Over-The-Top Packaging

From neon cans to gimmicky labels, the focus on flashy marketing irked some of our followers.

While eye-catching designs can grab attention, they can also detract from the beer itself, leading people to question whether the quality of the brew matches the hype of the packaging.

This approach often feels like style over substance, leaving traditional beer lovers unimpressed.

“When the packaging costs more than the beer itself, you know it’s a problem.” – Anonymous Commenter

5. Lite and Dry Beers

For those who enjoy a full-bodied pint, the popularity of lighter beers was a disappointment. Lite and dry beers often lack the depth and richness that some drinkers expect, making them feel like watered-down versions of the real thing.

While they serve a purpose for casual occasions, these beers fail to satisfy aficionados seeking complex flavors.

“Dry beer and lite beer. I just don’t get it.” – Larry L.

6. Pastry Stouts

Dessert-inspired beers with heavy flavors of chocolate, marshmallow, and vanilla were divisive. These beers often feel more like liquid desserts than actual beers, overshadowing the traditional stout characteristics.

For some, the sugary sweetness is overwhelming and detracts from the subtle complexities that make stouts special.

“They taste more like a milkshake than beer. Fun once, but I’m over it.” – Stephanie M.

7. Overpriced Beers

The rising cost of craft beers left many feeling shortchanged. While quality ingredients and innovative processes deserve recognition, many felt the pricing of some beers is out of reach for the average drinker.

This exclusivity can discourage people from exploring craft options, especially when they feel the price tag doesn’t match the experience.

“When a single can costs more than a six-pack used to… something’s wrong!” – Bruce R.

8. Glitter Beer

This Instagram-ready fad was fun while it lasted, but most people are ready to leave it in the past.

Glitter beer may catch the eye, but for many, it comes across as gimmicky rather than authentic. The novelty wears off quickly, leaving drinkers longing for something that prioritizes taste over spectacle.

“Do we really need edible glitter in our drinks? Hard pass.” – Chris W.

9. Fruit Overload

While fruit has its place in brewing, overdoing it can alienate traditional beer lovers. Fruit-forward beers can easily tip the balance, transforming a drinkable beer into something that feels more like a cocktail or smoothie.

This trend often leaves purists feeling disconnected from the essence of beer.

“It’s not a smoothie; it’s supposed to be beer!” – Jordan K.

10. Spicy Beers

Chili-infused IPAs and jalapeño stouts didn’t win over many fans. While spice can add an interesting dimension, it often overwhelms the palate and obscures other flavors.

Many drinkers felt that spicy beers are more of a novelty than a satisfying option for regular consumption.

“I like spice, but not when it’s burning my throat in what should be a refreshing beer.” – Ella J.

The world of beer trends is as diverse as its drinkers, and what’s overrated to one person might be beloved by another. Whether it’s high ABV hop bombs or fruity concoctions, each trend tells a story of experimentation and creativity.

These discussions reveal the personal connections we have with beer and what we expect from it.

Now it’s your turn—what’s the beer trend you’re over?