Did you know that New Zealand is the country with the most breweries per capita in the world?
Beer is, in fact, one of the most popular drinks in the country – if not the most popular one – and if you know anything about this refreshing beverage, you’re probably familiar with the fact that there are dozens of beer styles you can try.
Today, we’ll explore six of the most common craft beer types. Keep reading!
Pale Ale
As the name suggests, Pale Ales are light-coloured beers. There are many different types of Pale Ales, such as IPAs and APAs, so it’s difficult to describe this type of craft beer without getting into too much detail. However, you’ll like Pale Ale if you like a touch of bitterness in your beer.
Flavour: It depends on the type of Pale Ale, but they’re generally fruity
Alcohol by volume: 6% to 7%
Good food pairings: Burgers, Mexican food, or fried food
Brown Ale
On the other side of the spectrum from Pale Ale is Brown Ale. This type of craft beer is darker but not to the level of others we will discuss soon. If you want to dabble in the world of dark beers, a Brown Ale is a great starting point.
Flavour: Hints of caramel and, sometimes, a nutty flavour
Alcohol by volume: 4% to 6.3%
Good food pairings: Red meat, beef stew, or gouda cheese
Kölsch
Kölsch is a German beer that is very light and easy to drink, making it a perfect beverage for craft beer newbies. It’s also great if you don’t love the taste of alcohol, as it is virtually undetectable.
Flavour: Soft, sparkling, slightly fruity
Alcohol by volume: 4.4% to 5.2%
Good food pairings: Creamy cheese, pizza, or salads
Stout
If you’ve ever had a Guinness, you’ve had a Stout. These are unique types of beer, as they are usually described as creamy and thick. As we like to say, go for a Stout when in doubt.
Flavour: Hints of liquorice, coffee, or chocolate
Alcohol by volume: 5% to 10%
Good food pairings: Grilled food, chocolate, or oysters
Porter
If you like dark beers, you need to try a Porter. You can choose between a Brown Porter, which is like a pale brown but more substantial, or a Robust Porter, which is maltier and more intense.
Flavour: Hints of chocolate, toffee, or caramel
Alcohol by volume: 4% to 5.4%
Good food pairings: Barbecue, stews, or smoked foods
Bocks
Bock is another German beer; if we had to describe it in one word, we’d definitely say malty. This beer perfectly combines sweetness and bitterness.
Flavour: Slightly bitter with hints of caramel
Alcohol by volume: 6% to 7%
Good food pairings: Swiss cheese, roasted meats, or jerk chicken
Ready to Try All of These Craft Beer Types?
Now that you’re familiar with some of the countless craft beer types you probably understand why some people are so passionate about this beverage… you’re probably quite thirsty.
So why not visit us? We have 26 taps of beer and plenty of delicious food. Check our menu!
