When it comes to the world of craft beer, one trend has been gaining momentum in recent years: beer collaborations. These unique brews bring together talented brewers from different backgrounds and styles to create something truly special – a perfect blend of flavors and expertise that often results in a beer unlike anything else on the market.

What is a Collaboration Beer?

A collaboration beer is a unique brew created through a joint effort between two or more breweries, often featuring distinct flavor profiles and styles.

• Benefits of Collaboration Beers

• Introduces a wider range of flavors and styles to the craft beer landscape
• Fosters creativity and innovation among brewers
• Promotes cross-cultural exchange and understanding within the brewing community

• Examples of Successful Collaborations

• The Bruery and Firestone Walker’s “Parabola” collaboration, blending bourbon barrel-aged stouts
• Lagunitas and Heineken’s “Lagunitas Hazy IPA,” showcasing a hazy IPA style
• Stone Brewing and Dogfish Head’s “Imperial Russian Stout,” combining imperial stout characteristics

• Key Takeaways

• Collaboration beers offer a refreshing change of pace for craft beer enthusiasts
• They highlight the diversity and creativity within the brewing community
• These unique brews can inspire new fans to explore the world of craft beer

As a craft beer enthusiast, I appreciate the innovative spirit behind collaboration beers. By embracing these unique brews, we can discover new flavors and styles, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of brewing.

For more information on craft beer trends and styles, visit our craft beer trends page or check out our beer styles guide.

At The Goods On Tap, we’re passionate about sharing knowledge and expertise on all things craft beer. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just starting your journey, we invite you to join our community and explore the rich world of craft beer.

The Big 3 Beer Companies in the US

We’re often asked who the biggest players in the US beer market are, and the answer is quite simple.

• Anheuser-Busch InBev
• MillerCoors
• Constellation Brands

These three behemoths dominate the US beer landscape, producing a vast array of popular beers that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

About Anheuser-Busch InBev

As the largest brewer in the world, Anheuser-Busch InBev boasts an impressive portfolio of iconic brands, including Budweiser, Stella Artois, and Corona.

• Bud Light
• Budweiser
• Michelob Ultra

With operations spanning across the globe, Anheuser-Busch InBev has established itself as a leader in the craft beer movement, offering a range of innovative products that appeal to discerning consumers.

About MillerCoors

MillerCoors, a joint venture between SABMiller and Molson Coors Brewing Company, is another major player in the US beer market.

• Cobra
• Blue Moon
• Leinenkugel’s

With a strong presence in the US, MillerCoors produces a variety of popular beers, including Miller Lite, Coors Banquet, and Blue Moon Belgian White.

About Constellation Brands

Constellation Brands, a leading beverage company, owns a significant stake in the US beer market through its Crown Imports division.

• Corona Extra
• Modelo Especial
• Pacifico

With a focus on premium and super-premium beers, Constellation Brands has successfully expanded its portfolio to cater to the growing demand for high-end beverages.

Why These Three?

The dominance of these three companies can be attributed to their ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences, invest in innovation, and leverage their global reach to stay ahead of the competition.

While there may be other notable players in the US beer market, Anheuser-Busch InBev, MillerCoors, and Constellation Brands remain the undisputed leaders, driving growth and shaping the future of the industry.



What Goes With Beer As A Gift?

When it comes to gifting beer enthusiasts, there are numerous options beyond just the brew itself.

• Brewery-themed Merchandise

• T-shirts, hats, or socks featuring logos or branding of their favorite breweries
• Novelty items like pint glasses, growlers, or beer koozies

• Beer Accessories

• Unique or specialty bottle openers, often themed around hobbies or interests
• Wooden or glass flight sets for sampling multiple beers at once

• Food Pairings

• Snacks made with beer, such as beer mustard, cheese spreads, or pretzels
• Artisanal foods like chocolates, nuts, or crackers specifically paired with beer

• Experiences

• Tickets to beer festivals, tastings, or brewery tours
• Certificate programs or beer-pairing classes for the enthusiast

• Subscription Services

• Monthly beer clubs delivering new brews and tasting notes
• Online platforms offering access to exclusive releases and limited-edition beers

• Homebrewing Essentials

• Equipment kits for homebrewing, including fermenters, hydrometers, and siphons
• Recipe books or online resources guiding homebrewers through the process

For those who appreciate the art of beer-making, consider gifting equipment or supplies to enhance their homebrewing experience.

Ultimately, the perfect gift for a beer enthusiast depends on their personal preferences and interests.

Consider combining these ideas or adding a personal touch to make the gift truly special.



What Two Beers Mix Well Together?

I’m always excited to share my favorite beer combinations with fellow craft beer enthusiasts.

• Black and Tan: A classic combination that pairs a pale ale with a dark layer of Guinness Stout. Simply pour half a pint of pale ale, followed by a dark layer of Guinness Stout. This refreshing drink is perfect for warm weather and its unique layered effect makes it visually appealing.
• Shandy: A shandy is a beer cocktail made by mixing beer with a non-alcoholic beverage, such as lemonade or iced tea. Try combining a crisp lager with a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade for a refreshing summer drink.
• Beer Float: Inspired by ice cream floats, a beer float combines a rich stout or porter with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold temperature and smooth texture of the ice cream complement the bold flavors of the beer perfectly.

When it comes to pairing beers, there are many factors to consider, including flavor profiles, ABV levels, and personal preferences. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to exciting discoveries and new favorite drinks.

Popular Beer Pairings:

• IPA and Pale Ale: These hoppy beers pair well together, with the citrus and pine notes of the IPA complementing the malty sweetness of the pale ale.
• Stout and Porter: Rich, roasted stouts and porters are perfect for sipping on their own or paired together for a decadent treat.
• Lager and Pilsner: Crisp, refreshing lagers and pilsners are ideal for hot summer days and pair well together for a light, easy-drinking combination.

Experiment with Different Combinations:

Don’t be afraid to try new beer combinations and experiment with different flavors and styles. With so many amazing beers out there, the possibilities are endless!

The Best Combination for Beer

We’ve got the scoop on what makes the perfect pairing.

• Cheese and Beer: A match made in heaven, combining rich flavors and textures. Try pairing a hoppy IPA with creamy brie or a malty amber ale with sharp cheddar.
• Meat and Beer: From burgers to BBQ, there’s a beer to complement every meaty delight. A crisp lager pairs well with grilled meats, while a robust stout complements smoky flavors.
• Fruit and Beer: Sweet and savory combinations abound. Try pairing a fruity wheat beer with spicy chicken or a tart sour beer with sweet desserts.
• Nuts and Beer: Crunchy snacks meet refreshing brews. A nutty brown ale pairs well with roasted nuts, while a citrusy pale ale complements crunchy pretzels.

Top Picks for Beer and Food Pairings

1. IPA and Spicy Wings: The bitterness of the hops cuts through the heat of the wings, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
2. Amber Ale and Grilled Cheese: The malty sweetness of the beer complements the gooey cheese, making for a comforting combo.
3. Pilsner and Fresh Fruit: The crispness of the pilsner pairs perfectly with the sweetness of fresh fruit, creating a refreshing summer treat.
4. Stout and Chocolate Cake: The richness of the stout complements the decadence of the chocolate cake, making for a indulgent dessert pairing.

Expert Tips for Beer and Food Pairing

• Consider the Flavor Profile: Think about the flavor profile of the beer and how it will interact with the food. Bitter beers pair well with spicy foods, while sweet beers complement desserts.
• Think Texture: Combine contrasting textures for added interest. Crunchy snacks meet refreshing brews, while smooth cheeses pair well with hoppy IPAs.
• Experiment and Have Fun: Don’t be afraid to try new combinations and find your own favorite pairings!

Perfect Pairings: Two Drinks That Go Together

We’ve all been there – sipping on our favorite drink, wondering what would complement its flavors perfectly. In this article, we’ll explore two classic drink pairings that are sure to elevate your beverage game.

• The Classic Whiskey & Soda Water: A timeless combination that’s perfect for those who enjoy a smooth, crisp taste. The subtle sweetness of whiskey pairs beautifully with the refreshing fizz of soda water, making it an ideal choice for warm evenings or social gatherings.
• The Fruity Gin & Tonic: For those who prefer a tangy twist, gin and tonic is a match made in heaven. The botanicals in gin complement the citrus notes in tonic water, creating a refreshing and revitalizing drink perfect for summer days or outdoor events.

Why These Pairings Work:

When it comes to pairing drinks, the key is to balance contrasting flavors and textures. The classic whiskey and soda water combination works because the smoothness of the whiskey is offset by the crispness of the soda water, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Similarly, the fruity gin and tonic pairing succeeds because the botanicals in gin are elevated by the citrus notes in tonic water, resulting in a refreshing and invigorating drink.

Tips for Creating Your Own Drink Pairings:

1. Experiment with Different Flavors: Don’t be afraid to try new combinations and experiment with different flavors to find what works best for you.
2. Consider the Occasion: Think about the occasion and the atmosphere you want to create. For example, a classic whiskey and soda water might be perfect for a cozy night in, while a fruity gin and tonic could be ideal for a summer BBQ.
3. Pay Attention to Texture: Balance contrasting textures, such as smooth and fizzy, to create a harmonious drinking experience.

By following these tips and experimenting with different pairings, you can create unique and delicious drink combinations that will impress your friends and elevate your beverage game.