What To Know About Craft Beer: Get Brewer Insights

If you’re new to the world of craft beer, there’s a lot to explore and understand. From the variety of styles to the unique brewing processes, knowing the basics can enhance your beer-tasting experience. This blog will break down what to know about craft beer, from its definition to key brewing terminology, helping you appreciate the effort that goes into every pint at Rio Bravo Brewing.

Understanding the Definition of Craft Beer

When people talk about craft beer, they're referring to a beer made by a small, independent brewery that prioritizes quality, innovation, and tradition. According to the Brewers Association, the definition of craft beer includes three primary elements: it’s brewed by a small brewery (producing 6 million barrels or less annually), independent (less than 25% of the brewery is owned by a non-craft beer company), and traditional (using traditional ingredients and techniques).

At Rio Bravo Brewing, we stick to the essence of what craft beer should be, blending creativity with the highest standards. Take our Rio Bravo IPA, a West Coast-style IPA with 7% ABV and a bold 85 IBU, or the Freak Juice IPA, a hazy New England-style IPA bursting with notes of tropical fruits, for example. Both of these beers are prime examples of what craft beer can offer: complex flavors and innovative recipes that celebrate the art of brewing.

What Are the Different Types of Craft Beer Styles?

One of the most exciting things about craft beer is the diversity of styles available. Craft brewers, like those at Rio Bravo Brewing, are constantly experimenting with new ingredients and techniques, resulting in a wide range of beers that can cater to any taste.

• IPAs (India Pale Ales): Known for their hoppy bitterness, IPAs are often fruity, citrusy, or piney. Our Freak Juice IPA is a great example, showcasing a different twist on this beloved style with notes of grapefruit, orange, guava, pineapple, and passionfruit.
• Lagers: A cleaner, crisper beer, often more straightforward in flavor. For a refreshing option, try our Rio Bravo Especial, a Mexican lager with a 5.5% ABV and 32 IBU.
• Stouts and Porters: These dark beers are rich and roasted. Our Coffee Porter delivers deep, roasted flavors, perfect for fans of cold-brew coffee.
• Sours: These beers bring a tangy or tart element to the table. Our Chamoy Mango Tajin Sour offers a fun and spicy twist on the classic sour.

These craft beer styles ensure that whether you’re a fan of bold hops or smooth malts, there’s always something new to try at Rio Bravo Brewing.

What Is a Craft Brewer and What Sets Them Apart?

So, what is a craft brewer? A craft brewer is not just someone who brews beer but an artist and innovator who experiments with flavor profiles, brewing techniques, and ingredients. The main difference between a craft brewer and a large-scale commercial brewer is the focus on quality over quantity. Craft brewers prioritize local ingredients, small-batch processes, and creativity.

At Rio Bravo Brewing, we’re proud to uphold the craft brewer tradition. We’re always looking for ways to push boundaries with our beers like our Rio Bravo IPA, an award-winning unfiltered West Coast style IPA that stands out for its 7.0% ABV and 85 IBU. This beer exemplifies the dedication and passion craft brewers put into creating something truly special.

Mastering Beer Terminology: How To Speak Like a Pro

Learning beer terminology can elevate your craft beer experience, making it easier to communicate your preferences and understand the nuances of different beers. Here are some essential terms to help you talk like a pro:

• ABV (Alcohol by Volume): This refers to the percentage of alcohol in a beer. For example, our 2 Step Lager has a 5.0% ABV, giving it a balanced strength that’s enjoyable yet not overpowering.
• IBU (International Bitterness Units): This measures the bitterness of a beer, mainly due to the hops used. For a hoppier experience, try our Don’t Call Me Lager (33 IBU) or the higher-end Rio Bravo IPA (85 IBU).
• Hazy: This term refers to the cloudiness in beer, typically seen in IPAs like our Freak Juice IPA. It indicates the use of wheat, oats, or unfiltered yeast, contributing to a richer mouthfeel and fruity aroma.
• Malt: Malt provides the sugars needed for fermentation, affecting the beer’s sweetness and body. For malt lovers, our ESB Amber, with its subtly sweet malt profile, is a perfect choice.

Learning these terms helps you better describe what you like, whether you’re ordering a pint at our taproom or browsing our diverse menu of craft beers.

Now that you’ve learned what to know about craft beer, from its definition to different styles and terminology, you can step into Rio Bravo Brewing with newfound confidence. Whether you’re enjoying a crisp Rio Bravo Especial or savoring the tropical notes of our Freak Juice IPA, knowing the craft behind the brew makes every sip more satisfying. Join us at Rio Bravo Brewing to explore our full lineup of expertly crafted beers and experience the passion that goes into every pint.

Want more information about Rio Bravo Brewing? Then contact us today!