Wondering what to get someone for the holidays? Give the gift of beer.
Gift-giving is a complex art that requires a deep understanding of the person you’re gifting to. What do they like, what are their interests, and how would they use your gift?
Some people want a new toolbox on their birthday or during the holidays. Others would prefer a new gaming setup. Then, some want something with a bit more body, fruity esters, and sharp hop bitterness.
That’s right, the craft beer enthusiast in your life is more than likely content with receiving a few 4-packs from his favorite local craft brewery. Holidays and birthdays (or any time, really) are the perfect time to get your special someone the gift of craft beer.
With so many options to choose from, how could you possibly pick out a beer that you know they’ll love? We've got you covered if you’re wondering how to choose the right beer as a gift.
Buy beer as a gift by considering the ones they like. If they like a particular beer, choose that one or one in a similar style. If their favorite beer is an IPA, buy them a new one to try. If they like fruity beers, buy them a style of beer or a particular brand that uses fruit.
Craft breweries make it easy to buy beer as a gift, as most produce four packs so you’re not committed to a full case of beer if the gift flops. And, as a bonus, you’re supporting a local business—it’s a win-win for everyone!
Here is a list of some of the most popular craft beer styles, all of which you can find at Bridge City Beverage:
India Pale Ale (IPA)
Pale Ale
American Lager
Hefeweizen
American Sour
American Stout
India Pale Ale (IPA)
The IPA is the most popular craft beer style in America. Chances are, this style is either a safe bet for a gift or one that you should avoid altogether. If your giftee buys different IPAs from Bridge City Beverage or orders them on a night out, buy one of the numerous IPAs to choose from. If you know your special craft beer enthusiast disdains this hoppy beer style, consider something lighter, like a lager.
American Pale Ale
American Pale Ales are essentially lighter versions of IPAs. Pale ales offer a similar level of hoppiness and bitterness with a lower ABV. They’re sometimes malty, with underlying notes of bread, biscuits, and crackers. Don’t be fooled; these beers are still hoppy and require a certain fondness of the style to appreciate them.
German-style Pilsner
A safe bet for almost any beer drinker is a German-style pilsner. This craft beer style is a lager that uses special German hop varieties with very subtle herbal spice notes. The pilsner is clean and light with an average ABV, making it a versatile gift for anyone that enjoys craft beer.
Hefeweizen
Wheat beers, or Hefeweizen, are another golden choice (literally and figuratively) as a craft beer gift. These are beers that are brewed with at least 50% wheat. They have a full and often hazy body with notes of banana, clove, and sometimes, bubblegum. Hefeweizens are a good middle-ground pick for someone that might not like IPAs but wants a beer with more substance than a light lager.
American Sour
American Sours are another versatile pick for craft beer lovers because you’ve probably heard your giftee say they either love them or hate them. Sours come in all shapes and sizes and taste entirely like the ingredients used to brew them, often including whole fruits. They also range in ABV for anyone looking for a lighter or bulkier beer.
Careful: sours are often made with lactose, so be weary for the sake of anyone with an intolerance.
American Stout
Winter is the season for stouts. American stouts have a roasted aroma and taste with hints of chocolate, coffee, and caramel. They have a high calculated bitterness that is masked by the potent roasted flavors of this beer style. A craft beer enjoyer will surely be pleased by a stout. Other options for stouts include barrel-aged stouts, like Goose Island reserve, which are prevalent this time of year.
There are countless craft beer styles to choose from these days, making it difficult to narrow down gift ideas. The craft beer enthusiast in your life will be grateful that you got them their favorite brew or a new one to try.
If you have questions about a specific beer, feel free to give us a call; we can check its availability or attempt to order it for you.
If you’re wondering about holiday beer options, read our article discussing winter warmers and other seasonal styles, and take a look at our custom 12 Beers of Bridge City variety pack - available while supplies last.