Maybe it’s the bitterness, or perhaps the carbonation; it could be the flavor, or the calories, or maybe you’ve only tasted the cheap and basic — whatever your reason, you’ve got some strong feelings against beer. And that’s okay. However, as a beer enthusiast, I’ve tried so many wildly different brews that I believe there is a beer out there for everyone.
All of the beers that made this list have been taste-tested and approved by at least one self-proclaimed “beer hater,” so I encourage you to give them a chance, too. However, before doing so, make sure you know how to taste beer properly.
1. Chocolate Milk Stout: 4 Hands Brewing Co.
Photo by Jay Aber
That’s right, a stout made the list (actually, there are two on here). Why? This beer is as delicious as it sounds; thanks to the addition of lactose, this ale is actually quite mild, and taking a swig coats your mouth with a buttery smooth cocoa flavor that’s cut by a hint of dark roast coffee.
If 4 Hands isn’t available near you, don’t stress. There are plenty of other milk stouts to try, and in more flavors than just chocolate; check out Beer Advocate’s list of milk stouts to find one that floats your boat.
2. Framboise Lambic: Lindeman’s Brewery
Photo by Sarah Schuette
This was my professor’s choice (he’s a chef) for the beer-opposed, and after one sip, it’s easy to see why. This Belgian brew is basically snazzy, fresh, raspberry pancake syrup that will get you wasted. Seriously, pair this with any of these pimped out pancake recipes and you won’t be sorry.
3. Fat Ash Stout: PaPPo’s Pizza and Brewing Co.
Photo by Sarah Schuette
Unfortunately, our second stout is currently only available in Missouri, but since it’s what inspired this article, its spot on this list is well deserved. This beautiful nectar tastes like a warm bowl of brown sugar and cinnamon oatmeal. So much yum.
To find something similar, be on the lookout for malty sweet stouts with cinnamon in their description. And if “malty” means nothing to you, read this little beer for dummies cheat sheet to get in the know about beer descriptors.
4. Wild Blue: Blue Dawg Brewing/Anheuser-Busch
Photo by Sarah Schuette
A common theme among the successes was fruit infusion. Though very sweet, Wild Blue differs from the other fruity brews on this list with its stronger carbonation and less syrupy mouthfeel. For similar beers, keep an eye out for fruit lagers, which are typically hoppier than a juicy cider or sweet lambic.
5. Baba: Uinta Brewing Co.
Photo by Sarah Schuette
This beer was a surprising hit since it’s incredibly dark. But velvety and earthy, it’s like iced black coffee with only a trace of the bitterness — perfect for coffee lovers and carbonation haters.
6. Single Speed: 4 Hands Brewing Co.
Photo by Sarah Schuette
Brewed with jasmine, it was agreed that this beer tasted like one thing: unsweetened iced tea. Refreshing and light, Single Speed is a perfect choice for somebody who prefers mellower flavors.
7. Pineapple Hard Cider: ACE Cider
Photo by Sarah Schuette
Though technically yes, this is a cider and not a true “beer,” it was the overall favorite, which was expected since it tastes like lightly carbonated pineapple juice. The unique flavor would be a nice change for anyone who’s enjoyed more traditional apple and pear flavors of ciders, and it’s a good stepping stone to the real deal.
If you find one (or more) that you like, congratulations. But don’t worry, on the off chance that you try all of these and still aren’t a fan, here are some alternatives to drink instead.