Overwhelmed by the endless options flowing out of Cleveland breweries?
You needn't be. Drink them all, and see what you like. Dabble, sip, or guzzle your way through every creation spinning out of the backrooms and brilliant minds and seasoned livers of the area's brewmasters. It's a journey well worth taking.
But if you have to pick just six, here are the front-runners — the ideal six-pack of Northeast Ohio brews. Unlike the many beers available only on tap, these are conveniently available in bottles to take home and enjoy, or bestow upon out-of-towners as gifts.
Hands down, this is the best of what Cleveland breweries have to offer. At least, according to us. But we're right, so don't bother arguing. —Vince Grzegorek
Blonde Bombshell
Indigo Imp, 6.2% ABV
Reliably stocked at your corner store (assuming you have a good corner store), Indigo Imp's tasty blonde ale is refreshing, simple, and slightly floral. In other words, delicious.
White Rajah
Brew Kettle, 6.4% ABV
One of the few Brew Kettle beers you can find outside of the confines of its cozy Strongsville headquarters, this American IPA hits all the right citrus and pine notes.
Siberian Night Imperial Stout
Thirsty Dog, 9.7%
It gets dark and cold during the winter on the shores of Lake Erie, and a dark imperial stout is the antidote. The brain-numbing alcohol content doesn't hurt, either.
Hippie IPA
Buckeye Brewing Company, 6.8% ABV
Hoppy, tangy, beer-y...the perfect year-round quaff that will satisfy novice craft beer drinkers and aficionados alike.
B.O.R.I.S. The Crusher Oatmeal Imperial Stout
Hoppin' Frog, 9.4%
Consistently the Northeast Ohio beer rated highest by beer experts around the country. A bit pricey, a bit oatmeal-y, and entirely worth it.
Christmas Ale
Great Lakes Brewing Company, 7.5% ABV
Really, how could Christmas Crack not make the list? It has its champions and detractors, its own songs and tributes, and a lore and legend to match.
