CP NEWS: Best Local Beers

[ddm-news]

-By Kristen Dunleavy

Love beer, but sick of monotony? We feel you. As it turns out, there’s a wealth of colorful breweries out there, some of which may even be in your own backyard (you wish). So grab a cold one and order up some of these local (and not so local) favorites for your next shindig, dinner party, or drunken expedition.

Alaskan Summer Ale

Hails from: Juneau, Alaska

Why we love it: It makes sense that the most hardcore state of all has an equally ass-kicking beer. Endorsed by Shamu (check out the packaging), this seasonal brew is a blend of Hallertauer hops and a soft malt that makes for a smooth, refreshing taste. In case you’re still wondering if Alaska actually has summer-time--I wouldn’t ask questions. Alaskans do what they want.

To start drinking: Alaskanbeer.com

Genesee Cream Ale

Hails from: Rochester, New York

Why we love it: Genny is the ultimate cheap date brew. Pabst drinkers, take note: $2.99 can buy you a six-pack of this deliciously light and foamy macro beer. It’s got a light grainy quality and loads of carbonation, but we’re willing to overlook that since it’s the cheapest beer available that doesn’t taste like urine.

To start drinking: Highfalls.com

Delirium Tremens

Hails from: Brouwerij Huyghe, Belgium

Why we love it: Now you, too, can get down with the Dutch, or at least drink like them. Truth is, more people are drawn to this quirky brew not by its sweet, fruity, aroma, but by the dancing pink elephants on the label. The incredible 9% alcohol content may have something to do with it too.

To start drinking: Pascalkolkman.com/delirium/

Lagunitas Censored

Hails from: Petaluma, California

Why we love it: So it’s called a copper ale, and it’s supposedly censored, but this brew is actually neither of these things. WTF? What I can tell you is that Lagunitas Censored Ale is a smooth caramel malt that has an air of toffee with roasted undertones. It’s sweet, brown sugary flavor might leave you with a craving for pie, or whatever else you plan on stuffing your ravenously drunk self with.

To start drinking: Lagunitas.com

Abita Turbo Dog

Hails from: Abita Springs, LA

Why we love it: Turbo Dog is not for beginners: Casual beer-drinkers, read no further. For those of you who long for a rich, supple brew (and for those who simply can’t follow directions), this beer super thick and full of creamy chocolate malt flavor. Serious drinkers might enjoy a frothy glass of Abita for dessert after a nice, satisfying meal of Guinness.

To start drinking: abita.com

Offshore Nut Brown Ale

Hails from: Oak Bluffs, MA

Why we love it: Those New Englanders sure do have a way with words. Or, in this case, beer. This ale, unsurprisingly, has a deep reddish brown hue and a bit of a dry-roasted aftertaste. It’s a little sweet, a little spicy, and has a lot of attitude. Not unlike the locale.

To start drinking: Offshoreale.com

Bell’s Oberon Ale

Hails from: Galesburg, MI

Why we love it: If summer was a beverage, what would it taste like? Apparently a heady bottle of beer, according to the folks at Bell’s Brewery. This brew is made with all-American wheat and Saaz hops, and packs just enough punch to reel in the amateur and charm the connoisseur.

To start drinking: Bellsbeer.com

Flying Dog Doggie Style

Hails from: Aspen, Colorado

Why we love it: Hoppy, hoppy, joy joy! Flying Dog Doggie Style has a rich amber hue with a complex taste unmatched by most pale ales. The vomiting dog on the label serves as a reminder to us all to drink responsibly.

To start drinking: Flyingdogales.com

Molson Export

Hails from: Montreal, Canada

Why we love it: If you don’t find the giant ship on the label a little unsettling, it’s probably because you’re too drunk to notice. Canada’s #1 beer goes down so easy, you might not notice that you’re on your 8th one. Though it’s relatively light, it has slightly more flavor than some of its other Molson siblings. Check out the variety pack to get the most bang for your buck. You’ll be swaggering like a mountie in no time.

To start drinking: Molson.com

Lancaster Milk Stout

Hails from: Lancaster, PA

Why we love it: Well, at least you know those Amish are putting their cows to good use. This jet-black stout is brewed year-round, and has a solid taste comprised of chocolate, grain, caramel, and of course, milk. If you’re not particularly fond of a hearty stout, this one might just convert you: It harkens back to a simpler time when your drink of choice was Ovaltine.

To start drinking: Lancasterbrewing.com

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