Utah is on fire – figuratively, not literally. Once known just for having the best snow on earth, they are now beginning to gain world recognition as leaders in the brewing industry as well. As of November 2017, the list of active breweries in Utah has jumped from 18 to a staggering 27. That's 1.4 breweries per 100,000 people age 21 or older. Utah now stands at number 16 in the U.S. in terms of barrel production, and that number is set to continue rising.
What is their secret? Well, the formula lies in their diversity. Utah brewers produce a wide variety of microbrews, ales and lagers that are not only satisfying, but will keep you coming back for more. They still employ the same classic tastes we have all come to love, but are not afraid to explore new frontiers either.
In Utah, there is a unique beer for everyone. Whether you like the crisp, classic taste of a lager or the full-bodied, tongue-tantalizing taste of an IPA, with Utah brewing, you are in for a treat.
If you have not yet experienced beer from the Wasatch, you are definitely missing out. Wasatch was the very first brewery to open in Utah. Their hand-crafted microbrews use only the best hops, malt and yeast available. The mash is mixed by hand, just the way they like it. The whole process, from start to finish, is all hands-on, leaving the finished product nothing short of perfection.
So if you are in the mood for fulfillment but sick of the same dry beer, crack open the fresh full-bodied experience only Bonneville Breweries can deliver. Their Antelope Ale ties together amber and caramel, mixed beautifully with biscuit malt and earthy hops, creating a balanced, full-bodied experience your taste buds are sure to love.
In the holiday spirit? Grab some Pumpkin Spice Ale. This deep orange ale is derived from traditional pumpkin pie spices, giving it a full, warm and rich flavor. Caramel-infused malts carry its flavor into a sweet melody your tongue will love to hear. Nothing says fall better than the spicy flavor of a Pumpkin Spice Ale.
More into Hefeweizen? Silver Island is an unfiltered wheat ale, light on the hops making it easy to drink. For a more traditional taste, this one takes the cake. It's cool and refreshing. The crisp wheat malt leaves nothing to chance. When you taste this beer, it's like imbibing the Rockies in a can.
Yet, one of the best beers of all time is the Free Roller. Any true hop-fanatic will agree. The citrus and pine, blended together with the bitterness of west-coast hops, is an IPA masterpiece. It will leave your tongue begging for more. Just remember to hide it when your Bishop comes over; otherwise, he may drink you dry.
No matter what type of beer you are looking for, Utah has a taste for everyone. To drink or not to drink is simply not a question. Just like the motto says on Polygamy Porter: "You can't just have one."