Five beer crushes at the American Craft Beer Fest
We had five local beer experts pick their favorites on the ACBF roster. It appears that great beer minds think alike.
This weekend, beer fanatics will descend upon Boston’s World Trade Center to sip suds from more than 140 domestic brewers. The American Craft Beer Fest, presented by Beer Advocate, is the largest event of its kind in Boston this summer, featuring close to 650 beers.
ACBF runs Friday and Saturday in three different sessions, but getting in is only half the battle. Once you’re there, how do you decide what to drink? That’s why we consulted five local beer buffs to lend their biggest “beer crush’’ on the expansive roster for this weekend’s festival. Keep in mind, each expert was asked independently, yet three of five pros picked the same brew. If you’re heading to the Seaport this weekend, you may want to follow their lead.
Michael Oxton
Co-Founder, Night Shift Brewing
Beer Crush: Lawson’s Finest Liquids – Rhubarb Basil Saison
“It’s a giant list of awesome beers, but this stands out as one I’d really like to try. Lawson’s puts out really high-quality beers across the board. I’ve yet to try this one, it sounds pretty funky, and I’d love to see how they balanced those very distinct flavors.’’
Keith O’Hara
Sales Manager, Massachusetts Beverage Alliance
Beer Crush: Other Half Brewing Co. – Chardonnay Barrel Aged Brett Saison
“Beyond the eye-catching packaging and vintage ‘50s Perlick jockey box (a beer geek antique similar to a Stingray 427) they brought to Extreme Beer Fest, these guys are making some world-class IPAs in Brooklyn. However, I can’t wait to see their take on a delicate Belgian style that is ideal for the warm weather we’re going to have this weekend. I’m expecting a lot of light fruit aromas in the nose, crisp carbonation, and a refreshing peppery-tartness. Then getting back in line for more.’’
Kelsey Roth
Brand Manager, Craft Beer Cellar
Beer Crush: Rising Tide Brewing Company – Maine Island Trail Ale
“If I have to choose just one beer at the festival, I’ll have to go with Maine Island Trail Ale from Rising Tide Brewing Company. It has a beautiful citrus hop note, solid malt backbone and comes in 16 oz. cans for portability. Plus, at only 4.3% ABV, I don’t feel guilty reaching for another one.’’
Matt Maguire
Beer Director, Social Wines
Beer Crush: Other Half Brewing Co. – Chardonnay Barrel Aged Brett Saison
“I have tasted a few of their different IPAs, which I found to be top notch, so I am really interested in seeing what they can do with some wild yeast and barrel aging. Plus, they aren’t available in Massachusetts, so it is a good chance to try something without having to travel or trade.’’
Megan Parker-Gray
Beer Director, Row 34
Beer Crush: Other Half Brewing Co. – Chardonnay Barrel Aged Brett Saison
“Funk city? Check. Aged in Chardonnay barrels? Check. I’m looking forward to tasting how all these components come together in a glass, plus I love a good Brett beer!’’
New England breweries to visit:
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