Short Brews

Kirkland Helles Style Lager Review: Finally, a Good Kirkland Beer?

Thomas Short — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 03:43:17 +0000

Kirkland products, Costco’s private label, tend to fall into the “good, not great” category, where you don’t sacrifice much in quality but get plenty of quantity. The Kirkland Helles Style Lager fits “good, not great” to a tee, which is good news for beer fans who have tried Kirkland beers in the past. Long-time Costco shoppers know that Costco doesn’t directly produce Kirkland goods; instead, other companies make them (usually at a slightly lower quality than their main products), then Kirkland brands them. So, the quality of the product, which in this case is beer, depends heavily on the original producer. Fortunately, Costco paired with a winner. Here’s what I thought of the incredibly well-priced and surprisingly decent Helles Style Lager. Kirkland Signature Helles-Style Lager: At a Glance The Helles Style Lager, though lacking in an interesting name, doesn’t lack in character. It brings everything you’d expect from a Helles lager, from a 4.5% ABV to a malt-forward profile. But more about the flavor in a bit, since what interested me most about this beer is the branding. Usually, Kirkland Signature products leave you guessing who the actual producer is. For example, the superior Kirkland Vodka was long rumored to be produced by Grey Goose (it’s actually Distillerie de Gayant). That so many people still assume it’s Grey Goose speaks to just how Kirkland branded these products are. But not the Helles-Style Lager. There’s no mistaking the brewery behind this beer: Oregon’s Deschutes Brewing. The logo is featured heavily both on the box and the can, which is something of a rarity for Kirkland products. It’s almost as if Costco knew their previous beer options, such as Kirkland Light, were terrible beyond drinkability, and that they needed to lean on another brand’s reputation. Fortunately, the Helles-Style lager drinks more like a Deschutes beer than a Kirkland beer, meaning it’s a legitimately decent beer, especially for the price. Kirkland Helles Lager Flavor and Profile As I mentioned before, the Helles Style Lager is a 4.5% ABV Helles lager. It has tons of delicious malt flavor, as you would expect from a Helles, with sweet bready flavors. It has a great dry finish, all complemented by the smooth carbonation. Put simply, this is a tasty, crispy beer. But this is Costco! Quality isn’t the only thing that shoppers expect to see from Kirkland products. The brand is famous for its quantity and affordability! Naturally, the Helles Style Lager checks both boxes. When I last purchased this beer, it was available in 12-packs for $13.99, making it as cost-effective as beers like Modelo. While Modelo is one of my favorite Mexican beers, at this point I think I would prefer the Deschutes…I mean Kirkland Helles Style Lager. It’s truly difficult to find something that meets Deschutes’ quality at this price point. Final Thoughts: Helles Style Lager Overall, the Helles Style Lager is an easy buy that you don’t have to think twice about. It’s the perfect afternoon beer that doesn’t weigh heavily in your stomach or on your wallet. The only downside I can think of is the name. Helles Style Lager describes the beer perfectly, but after writing it a dozen times, I can’t help but think that there has to be a better name. Of course, you can find much better Helles lagers than this Kirkland iteration, but I doubt you will at this price. I’d recommend this beer seven days a week, followed by a tastier Deschutes option like Mirror Pond or Fresh Squeezed. Rating: 3.5/5 Highlights: Quality, affordability, flavor Downside: Generic, boring name

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Best Breweries In Seattle

Thomas Short — Tue, 26 May 2026 17:22:50 +0000

When you think of Seattle, you might be tempted to make some awful joke about being sleepless. I know I am, and I’ve never even seen the movie. But I’m also tempted to think about the Seattle beer scene because it is POPPING! Yes, Seattle is home to plenty of things. A football team, a baseball team, the Space Needle, some other landmarks, blah blah blah. When you’re a self-anointed beer snob like I am, you’re looking for one thing: a brewery you can sit in for hours on end, crying tears of joy into the complimentary pretzels while you finish your eighth saison. For locals, visitors, and beer snobs alike, here’s a quick spotlight on the Emerald City. 10 Best Breweries In Seattle 1. Fremont Brewing Fremont Brewing has long been my top recommendation for Seattle beer. Odds are that if you’re visiting, you might have flown Alaska Airlines in and had a chance to try some special brews by Fremont. The taproom is right across the street from Lake Washington and has my favorite brewery vibes in the city. Lush IPA and the Golden Pilsner are both safe picks, but try their barrel-aged beer or rotating taps for something new and interesting. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) 2. Cloudburst Brewing With locations in the popular Ballard neighborhood and touristy Pike Place Market area, Cloudburst Brewing should be easy to find if you’re visiting. The head brewer came from Elysian Brewing, so their specialty is definitely IPAs. However, don’t expect something super bitter like Elysian’s Space Dust IPA. If you’re looking for a juicy hazy IPA, you should add Cloudburst to your list. 3. Holy Mountain Brewing One of the most popular breweries among locals, Holy Mountain Brewing is best known for its incredible barrel-aged beers. If you want something more traditional, their saisons and ales are worth ordering. The original Interbay location isn’t super easy to get to, but there’s another newer spot in Phinney Ridge which is much more accessible. 4. Stoup Brewing My personal favorite in Ballard, Stoup Brewing has an awesome location and great assortment of well-done beers. The IPAs are good, but I recommend going with whatever rotating lager they have on draft. If you find Mixtape Romeo, be sure to order that first! Stoup recently opened another location in Capitol Hill which I haven’t had a chance to check out, but it’s good to see more breweries entering that neighborhood. 5. Georgetown Brewing There was a time when visiting Georgetown Brewing was nearly pointless, since the taproom didn’t actually sell pints to drink on site. However, this storied Seattle staple has since opened a legitimate taproom that’s modern and thoughtfully designed. Outside of the space, Seattleites will tell you that Georgetown has long been one of the best breweries in the city. You can find Manny’s pale ale pretty much everywhere, but my favorite is Johnny Utah pale ale. 6. Seapine Brewing If you’re planning on going to a Mariners, Sounders, or Seahawks game in Seattle, make sure to stop by Seapine Brewing. Hands down the best spot in SoDo, Seapine’s taproom is unassuming but large enough to enjoy with a big group. They brew a little bit of everything, but I always get the Seapine IPA or Pilsner, both of which you can probably find on tap in bars around the city. 7. Urban Family Brewing I’ve loved Urban Family since they were in Magnolia, and their Ballard spot is bound to be a destination if you’re planning on brewery hopping in that neighborhood. Urban Family makes exceptional sours, with Guava Dawn being a long-time favorite. They make good IPAs, but I recommend getting one of their lighter beers, like a saison or lager, if you aren’t into sours. 8. Ravenna Brewing If your trip to Seattle takes you near the University of Washington, go a little bit north of U Village and check out Ravenna Brewing. Ravenna Brewing’s taproom has such a classic brewery atmosphere, with great indoor and outdoor seating. They don’t brew tons of options, but I’ve never had a beer from Ravenna Brewing that I didn’t enjoy. 9. Reuben’s Brews Another local favorite, Reuben’s Brews essentially started what is now the Ballard Brewing District and have since expanded to add a location in Downtown Seattle. Crikey! IPA and Hazalicious have been mainstays on the menu for years and are both excellent. However, if you need a break from beer, order one of Reuben’s hard seltzers. They’re the best in the city, and you can buy cans from most local grocery stores. 10. Elysian Brewing It’s impossible to pick the best breweries in Seattle without mentioning Elysian Brewing. From the Space Dust IPA to the Men’s Room Red, Elysian has served quality craft beer to the Seattle community for decades. I know that selling out ot AB InBev rubbed a lot of locals the wrong way, but Elysian’s quality hasn’t dropped off since the sale. The Capitol Hill location was the first Seattle Brewery I ever visited, so I do have good memories there and may be a little biased. But odds are that you’ve had Elysian before, so if you want to try it at the source, stop by for a pint. Where to Brewery Hop in Seattle One of my favorite parts about Seattle is how each neighborhood has its own vibe, which the local breweries match. Most neighborhoods are also very walkable, making brewery hopping really easy! Here are neighborhoods to check out. Ballard. The Ballard brewery scene is quickly becoming a tourist destination, and for good reason. You can walk to half a dozen breweries in just a few minutes, and each has its own identity and signature style. I even covered the best breweries in Ballard to help visitors find the best fit! Fremont. I’ve already mentioned Fremont Brewing, but Gasworks Brewing and El Suenito Brewing Company are nearby. If you want a change

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Best Breweries in Ballard, Seattle

Thomas Short — Fri, 22 May 2026 21:23:55 +0000

Seattle has a reputation for craft beer, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a more craft-beer-dense neighborhood than Ballard. I should know; I lived in Ballard for years and watched breweries come, go, expand, and grow. There are many great breweries in Seattle, but let’s focus on breweries that you can find (and enjoy) in Ballard. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Best Breweries in Ballard Ballard is spoiled with great beer and fantastic spots, and it’s tough to find a bad spot to get a beer. Here are my top spots to enjoy some craft beer in Ballard. 1. Stoup Brewing One of several great spots on NW 52nd St, Stoup is a great place to grab an IPA or lager and enjoy the outdoors. They have a large outdoor patio with a cool fire pit, and they often host pop-ups where you can buy odds and ends. My favorite part of Stoup is the upstairs area, which has a separate bar and a nice balcony. They have a meat vending machine, too! 2. Reuben’s Brews Sitting on 14th, Reuben’s is a mainstay in Ballard. Honestly, I don’t think the Ballard beer scene would be anything like it is today without Reuben’s. This spot has great IPAs and a fantastic line of seltzers. Just down the road is their barrel house, a smaller spot where you can try some more unconventional brews. 3. Fair Isle Brewing If you like Jester King and farmhouse beers, Fair Isle is the spot to go. Their saisons, sours, and similar styles are all fantastic. While their taproom isn’t my favorite, it’s definitely worth dropping by to pick up a bottle or two. 4. Bale Breaker/Yonder Cider Bale Breaker broke into the Ballard beer scene by moving into a huge location with a great indoor and outdoor area. Together with Yonder Cider, Bale Breaker took this awesome space and made it yet another go-to spot for great beer in the neighborhood. 5. Urban Family Brewing Urban Family has cemented itself as one of the top breweries in Seattle, not just in Ballard. They have a cozy outdoor space, and while they have a cool upstairs, I often find that it’s way too crowded. But the beer is really good here, and its location right across the street from Stoup makes it easy to hit two of Seattle’s best breweries in one quick visit. 6. Lucky Envelope Brewing Located on 50th, Lucky Envelope takes traditional beers and puts a little spin on them, whether that’s a seasonal beer to celebrate Lunar New Year or their year-round Raspberry Sour. My favorite beer I ever had here was an IPA made with Buddha’s hand, to give you an idea of the types of flavors they experiment with. Fun fact: my friend once told me the bartenders would mix him a Raspberry Sour and a Peanut Butter Stout they had on tap. I didn’t believe him. He asked the bartender if they would mix the two beers. The bartender said no. 7. Cloudburst Brewing Seattleites might be quick to say, “Cloudburst isn’t a Ballard brewery.” Yes, their main location is in Belltown, but their Ballard location fits in perfectly. Located on Shilshole, there really aren’t any other breweries super close by, making this an easy stop to pick if you’re out and about on Leary. The spot is surprisingly cozy, and the beer is always good. 8. Wheelie Pop Brewing A newer brewery to the Ballard neighborhood, Wheelie Pop draws its inspiration from racing. They specialize in lighter beers (think lagers, pilsners, etc) and do an excellent job. The space is a little industrial and not the most charming, but it’s worth stopping by to try their beers. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) 9. Obec Brewing Obec aims to tackle classic Czech and German styles. Their spot is cool and their pilsner is incredible, but a lot of their other beers leave something to be desired. If you like a good pilsner, it’s worth dropping in. Beers to Try in Ballard There are so many great beers brewed in Ballard, but here are some of my favorites worth highlighting: Stoup Mosaic IPA: This is my favorite year-round beer at my favorite Ballard brewery, so I had to mention it. But if it’s on tap, get the Mixtap Romeo lager. Obec Pilsner: If you’re stopping by Obec, this is the beer to get. Bale Breaker Bottom Cutter IPA: Bale Breaker is best known for their IPAs, and this is their best IPA (in my opinion). Fair Isle Bobbi Saison: You could honestly go with any saison at Fair Isle, but the Bobbi has been available every time I’ve stopped in. Reuben’s Crushable Hazy Pale Ale: It’s a great pale ale. I’d also recommend trying whatever seltzer they have on tap.

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What Is Unfiltered Beer?

Thomas Short — Fri, 22 May 2026 20:47:30 +0000

It feels like every brewery these days has at least one Hazy IPA on tap. If they do, they might also have a hazy pale ale, or even an unfiltered lager. So, what makes these beers unfiltered, and what does unfiltered beer even mean? Let me be the first to tell you that unfiltered beer is made so by design (unless your friend just took up homebrewing and is cutting corners). So, it’s perfectly good to drink, and in some instances is preferable to filtered variations. Some breweries have embraced unfiltered beers and choose to brew most or all of their styles without filtering. Let’s take a closer look at filtered vs unfiltered beer, what makes a beer unfiltered, and any differences between a Hazy IPA and unfiltered beer. Filtered Beer vs Unfiltered Beer: What’s the Difference? During the brewing process, sediments, mostly particles of yeast and protein, are left floating in the brew. Many brewers choose to remove these sediments from the final product through a process known as filtering. There’s also a method in between filtering and unfiltering called rough filtering, because why not? For the purposes of education, we’ll consider rough filtering to be mostly unfiltered. What is Unfiltered Beer Like? Unfiltered beer usually has a cloudy color due to the leftover sediment, but this isn’t always the case. There are varying levels of “things” leftover during the brewing process depending on what you’re making. So, some unfiltered beers are cloudier than others. The flavor in unfiltered beer can best be described as unfiltered. When brewers remove sediment, including the yummy proteins, it can soften the entire flavor profile. Unfiltered beer gives you the full-on hop, yeast, brew flavor profile. As a result of not getting filtered, unfiltered beer can seem heavier or denser than filtered beer. But the quality of an unfiltered beer over a filtered beer lies entirely in the brewer and your personal beer opinion. And yes, it’s ok if you don’t like unfiltered beer. Health Benefits of Unfiltered Beer: No Hangover (Allegedly)! Did you know that unfiltered beer has some health benefits, making it a relatively healthy beer? Yes, by leaving the beer unfiltered, brewers leave in extra goodies like vitamin B and fiber. While I can’t attest to the truth of the claim, some brewers assert that B vitamins reduce hangovers. So, unfiltered beer is less likely to give you a hangover. I haven’t experimented with this hypothesis, so try at your own risk. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Unfiltered Beer Brands Let’s look at some examples of unfiltered beer that you can (probably) find near you: Unfiltered Beer and Wheat Beer Wheat beer and unfiltered beer look…pretty similar, to say the least. While the two share a cloudy appearance, the similarities end there unless the wheat beer is actually an unfiltered wheat beer. Really, the only difference between a beer and a wheat beer is that wheat beers use wheat as the primary grain during brewing in lieu of barley. Yes, wheat beers still use barley, but the ratio of wheat to barley is relatively high. So, to recap, while unfiltered beer and wheat beer look similar, they are not the same unless the wheat beer is unfiltered. Unfiltered IPA vs Hazy IPA As I’ve explored in the past, the factors that make a hazy IPA hazy are debatable. What makes an IPA an IPA is debatable. Basically, some brewers will choose not to filter an IPA and brand it as a hazy IPA. Others will choose not to filter an IPA and brand it as an unfiltered IPA. Unfiltered hazy IPA? Lunacy. So some hazy IPAs are unfiltered, and some unfiltered IPAs are hazy, but sometimes they’re neither or both, or one but not the other, but sometimes still both… Ok, I’m losing track here. How about an easy answer: the difference between an unfiltered IPA and a hazy IPA depends on what your brewer says. Is Unfiltered Beer Popular in the United States? I would say that yes, unfiltered beer is popular in the United States, with my reasoning being that craft beer in general is popular in the US. I can’t speak for its popularity outside of the US, so if your country loves unfiltered beer, let me know!

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What’s a Maibock Beer?

Thomas Short — Thu, 21 May 2026 21:31:58 +0000

Everybody loves a classic, and the Maibock is a classic. A Maibock is a type of strong beer from Germany. By strong, I mean that the Maibock is a hefty lager, usually darker in color than you’d get from a Helles or Pilsner. The Maibock is a lighter type of Bock and is popular in the spring. Unfortunately, like other classics, the Maibock has gone largely forgotten, relegated to obscure tap lists the same way you might have to wait for Some Like It Hot to show up on Turner Classic Movies just to watch the final scene. It’s a shame. Today, I want to explore the Maibock, praise the Maibock, and make a plea: Return the Maibock. What is a Maibock? The German Maibock beer style originated from the town of Einbeck and was originally named Einbeck. However, Bavarians had an accent, so the townsfolk of Munich pronounced it as ein Bock, which means goat. Over time, people just started calling these beers Bock instead of Einbock. As a cute little nod to the past, many Bocks and Maibocks have goats on their labels. History aside, the Maibock is a Bock that’s much paler in color, so much so that another name for the beer is Heller Bock, meaning Light Bock. Maibock vs Bock: What’s the Difference? As Cold IPA is to IPA, Maibock is to Bock. A Bock is a general type of strong beer best defined by the substyle it’s brewed in. The Maibock is a style of Bock, which means it has siblings. Here’s a quick rundown of the Bock family: What Does a Maibock Taste Like? While the traditional Bock has an incredibly malty flavor, the Maibock tampers this flavor down a bit, letting the hops shine through a little more. However, don’t expect the full-blown hop blast of an IPA when you sip on a Maibock. Maibocks are still malty, just not nearly as much as the traditional Bock. Most Maibocks have this awesome amber color that you just don’t find enough at craft breweries these days. In terms of booziness, expect something in the 6%-8% ABV range, though these can easily go higher in ABV. Ode to the Maibock: The Final Verse Openly lamenting the lack of Maibocks in the craft world is admittedly whiny and pathetic, and I don’t care. As much as I love a good pale ale, IPA, or crispy boi lager, it does get to the point where I crave a little more variety. I know that most craft brewers don’t brew Maibocks because they don’t sell as well as a 7% Hazy IPA that’ll go gangbusters on Saturdays and Sundays with the 35-45 male demographic. But I can, at the very least, write this ode. O! Maibock, how that art so tasty and cool How bad I wish to drink you by the pool When the sun beats down, and the wind is fair O, my sweet Maibock, you should also be there!

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Best Beers for Golf, Ranked for 2026

Thomas Short — Thu, 07 May 2026 15:50:40 +0000

Some things in life are always worth appreciating. A good beer. A nice round of golf. Of course, any golfer knows that you can’t just drink any beer on the course. Aside from the fact that you can’t bring your own beer (you would never do that, right?), some beers might have a more negative impact on your game and day. So, picking the right beers for golf is key. Here are the best beers for golf that you should be able to find on your course. Best Golf Beers, Ranked 1. Firestone Walker 805 There’s a lot to love about the 805. This beer is perfectly light, has good flavor, is 4.7% ABV, and doesn’t sit too heavily in your stomach. There are plenty of good occasions to grab an 805 outside of golf, but the course is a great place to enjoy this beer. 2. Ballast Point Grapefruit Sculpin IPA I know that adding an IPA is a bold call since IPAs, sunshine, and physical activity don’t mix very well. However, I think the Grapefruit Sculpin IPA gets a pass because the grapefruit flavor is just too perfect. It’s a 7% IPA that leans juicy and crisp, making it perfect to sip. Start your round with a Grapefruit Sculpin, or have one at the turn. Or have one after your round. If your golf course (or area) doesn’t carry this delicious beer, look for the regular Sculpin IPA or a Hazy Sculpin IPA. 3. Heineken Silver I don’t want to crowd this list with the “light lager” types (think Michelob Ultra, Coors Light, etc), but I’m going to highlight Heineken Silver. Why? Because it’s low-calorie and I legitimately like the flavor. It’s pretty close to the regular Heineken flavor while still being light and low-calorie, which is a great combination. 4. Deschutes Mirror Pond Pale Ale The Mirror Pond is a nice pale ale with real flavor, which I love. This beer does lean a little bitter and hoppy, but it’s just 5% ABV, meaning it packs a lot of flavor into a relatively light beer. It’s also available in most areas of the country, so it’s a safe pick if you see it on the beverage cart. 5. Local Lager Okay, this pick is a bit of a cop-out since it’s not a specific beer, but seriously consider buying a can of a local lager next time you’re golfing. Lagers are the perfect beer for sunshine, and you might find a local brewery that you enjoy! As an example, the Bandon Dunes Sheep Ranch Lager was the perfect pairing for Sheep Ranch, and I’m glad I gave it a try. 6. Athletic IPA The Athletic IPA, a great non-alcoholic beer, is legitimately one of the best beers to have on the links. Athletic does an incredible job of nailing beer flavor without any of the booze, perfect for someone who is taking their round seriously and doesn’t want alcohol affecting their swing. Golf Beers FAQs

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Beer in Japan: What to Drink In Tokyo, Osaka, and Beyond

Thomas Short — Wed, 06 May 2026 15:35:03 +0000

Japan is one of the hottest tourist destinations for Americans, and for good reason. From the culture and history to the food and views, Japan has something to offer pretty much every visitor. As a traveler heading to Japan, I wasn’t prepared for how big the beer culture has become. And it was a really pleasant surprise. Beer is a huge part of daily culture, from izakayas to getting together with friends. You can find really good beer anywhere you go, and if you look hard enough, you can also find a fast-growing craft beer scene. By no means should you travel to Japan just to drink beer, but if you’re planning a trip across the Pacific and want to find delicious beer, here are some spots (and beers) to check out. Beer Spots in Tokyo Odds are that if you’re visiting Japan, you’re traveling through Tokyo. The biggest city in the world has plenty to offer everyone, but let’s focus on spots to grab a beer. Ginza is a famous district known for its shopping and proximity to Tokyo Station. But the best spot to stop for a beer is the Ginza Lion Beer Hall. Created in 1934, the beer hall has a rich history that’s showcased through photos inside the waiting area. Along with serving tons of great draft beer from around the world. Ginza Lion Beer Hall also has delicious barbecue, making it a great stop for lunch or afternoon snacks. Another area you’re sure to stop in is Shibuya. Also known for its shopping (this is a theme in Japan), Shibuya has a young energy, vibrant nightlife, and chaotic quality that makes it fun and exciting. As you walk through the Scramble Crossing, you might stop by the Shibuya Parco building, which is full of fun stores. But the basement (aptly called Chaos Kitchen) is where you can find izakayas, including Beer Boy. Beer Boy serves local craft beer on tap, cans, and bottles, and craft breweries rotate through the spot. I had Teenage Brewing’s Asobi DDH DIPA, a style of beer I was not prepared to run into just two days into a Japan trip. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Further south in Yokohama, friends took us out for barbecue after a long day of sightseeing. It’s not a craft beer, but I did enjoy Suntory The Premium Malt’s, one of the main beers you can find throughout Japan. It’s worth noting that most beer in Japan is incredibly cheap compared to what most people are used to in the United States, and for the most part, the beer is crisp, light, and refreshing; perfect after a day of being a tourist. Beer Spots in Kyoto Kyoto isn’t large, especially in comparison to Tokyo and Osaka, but there are still plenty of spots to grab and enjoy some beer. Here were a few of my favorites. Nishiki Market is a bustling outdoor market right in the heart of Kyoto, and it’s nonstop shopping and food. While most places serve cheap sake to complement yakitori, you can also find nice spots to relax and enjoy a cold Sapporo or Kirin Ichiban. There are also great ramen spots nearby, and Sapporo and ramen are a great pairing. If you do stop by Nishiki Market, make a point to swing by Spring Valley Brewery. This craft brewery offers flights, seasonal taps, and a few solid flagship beers. Most of the people in Spring Valley were tourists (it is right by Nishiki Market), so the experience didn’t feel as authentic as Beer Boy. Still, this was a great spot to spend an hour and get off my feet, and I enjoyed their 496 Original Lager. Beer Spots in Osaka The final stop on our tour was Osaka, and what a great way to end a trip! Aside from grabbing beers at izakayas in Kyobashi, my favorite spot to grab a beer was in Dotonbori with the famous Asahi Dry sign in the background. Most places around there sell Asahi Dry, so you should have no trouble creating the perfect a beer-lover’s Instagram post. For craft beer, I stopped by a local spot and grabbed beer from Minoh Beer. This is another local craft brewery, based in northern Osaka in Minoh. If you don’t want to go out of your way to visit their main spot, you should be able to find their beer in bottles or on draft elsewhere in the city. I had the Pilsner and Pale Ale, both of which were excellent. Enjoying the Beer Culture in Japan It’s hard to explain beer culture in Japan without experiencing it yourself, but I would describe it as social, food-driven, and relaxed. Japanese people are hard-working, and a beer at an izakaya can be the ultimate way to relax after a long day. The macro beers, from Asahi to Sapporo, all work perfectly with Japanese cuisine, and they’re light enough so you can continue walking around and enjoying your day. The craft beer scene is growing, and I know I had more craft beer than I mentioned here. With a little bit of looking, you’re sure to find great craft beer throughout Tokyo and Osaka. With any luck, this post will be updated in the near future, because I’d love to go back.

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What Is a Rice Lager?

Thomas Short — Tue, 05 May 2026 14:22:03 +0000

A rice lager is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: a lager that’s made with rice. Malt, one of the main beer ingredients, is any type of malted grain, usually barley or wheat. Rice lagers usually add rice to the mix, making up anywhere from 25-40% of the grain bill. Rice lagers are light in body, clean on the finish, and a little less bitter than a more traditional barley-forward lager. Rice adds fermentable sugars but not a ton of flavor, letting the crisp flavor of beer shine without getting drowned out in malts. Oh, and rice is incredibly cheap and easy to produce, a big reason why giant commercial brewers have been using it in their beer for decades. What Does a Rice Lager Taste Like? Rice lagers aren’t very complex compared to something like a Vienna lager, but that doesn’t mean they lack character. Most rice lagers are incredibly clean, lightweight, and easy to drink. You should get dryness and crispness as well, with low bitterness since the beer usually has a small hop presence. Think of a rice lager as the polar opposite of an IPA. While an IPA will be heavy, high in ABV, and incredibly hop-forward, a rice lager is light, refreshing, and clear in color. Rice lagers are perfect for hot days and pair really well with food like pizza. Why Are They Sometimes Called Japanese Rice Lagers? The main reason a rice lager would be called a Japanese rice lager is that many famous rice lager brands, like Sapporo or Asahi, come from Japan. Japanese brewers had a lot of rice to work with, and they perfected the art of making a rice lager. In the United States, a craft brewery selling a Japanese rice lager is emulating the specific style that Japanese brewers utilize. There’s even a chance that none of the ingredients in these Japanese rice lagers are from Japan! It isn’t so unlike a brewer creating a Pilsner even though they’re not making the traditional beer style from Pilsen, Czechia. Are Rice Lagers Gluten Free? Just because rice is gluten-free doesn’t mean rice lagers are gluten-free. Rice lagers are rarely, if ever, brewed 100% with rice. Those other malt grains, like barley or wheat, definitely contain gluten. So no, rice lagers are not gluten-free unless listed otherwise by the brewer. Be sure to check with the brewer first before assuming any beer is gluten-free. Best Rice Lagers to Try If you want a great example of a good rice lager, I recommend these beers: Rice Lager vs Traditional Lager How does a rice lager compare to a more traditional or regular type of lager? Well, it basically comes down to the rice. A traditional lager made with malted barley will be full-bodied, have a golden or amber color, and a sweet malt flavor. Rice lagers, being rice-forward, will be drier and crisper, and much lighter in feeling. Both styles of lager are excellent, and neither is better; there’s just a better time to drink one option over the other.

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Best Breweries in San Diego

Thomas Short — Mon, 04 May 2026 21:12:02 +0000

San Diego may be most well known for its fair weather, golf, and beaches, but it’s also one of the best cities in the world for craft beer. I moved here from Seattle and was happy to continue to be surrounded by incredible beer. The craft beer scene in SD is dense, creative, and celebrated by locals. If you’re in San Diego for a weekend of if you’ve lived here for years, these are the breweries to visit. 10 Best Breweries in San Diego 1. AleSmith Brewing Company AleSmith is a local institution, and there’s plenty of reasons to try their beer. The main location for AleSmith (aptly located on AleSmith Court) is a must-visit for anyone brewery hopping in Miramar. The .394 Pale Ale (regular and hazy variety) is one of the best go-to beers in the city, and they serve micheladas, which is a bonus. Out-of-towners might know AleSmish best for the Speedway Stout which regularly gets a barrel-aged treatment. They also make the official beer of SDSU, the San Diego State Ale. Everything on the menu is great, and you can find their beer all over the city. 2. Pure Project Pure Project is the kind of brewery that makes you want to become a regular. Aside from the sustainability practices, community efforts, and giving back through donations (all very cool), Pure Project consistently brews great beer. From clean farmhouse brews to the Pub Ale, there’s plenty to choose from for all types of beer fans. It’s worth noting that Pure Project specializes in unfiltered beers, so don’t be surprised to see a little bit of cloudiness in most of what they produce. I prefer the Miramar location, but there’s a great spot next to Balboa Park if you’re planning a day at the zoo or museums. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) 3. Ballast Point Brewing Company One of the most recognizable SD beer brands, Ballast Point is an absolute slugger. The Sculpin IPA is one of the best examples of a West Coast IPA you’ll find, along with all the other variants they produce, from hazy to grapefruit. If you want the full San Diego experience, I recommend getting the Swingin’ Friar Ale, the offical beer of the San Diego Padres. Their spot in Little Italy is a lot of fun and close to other great bars and restaurants. 4. North Park Beer Company When you do something right, keep doing it. That has to be the mantra at North Park Beer Company since they routinely brew award-winning West Coast IPAs. The Hop Fu! IPA is the go-to options for IPA lovers, but ask the bartender what other awesome creations they have on tap. If you are a big fan of IPAs, this should be the first stop on your list. 5. Societe Brewing I probably rank Societie Brewing higher than other locals, but every time I’ve visited one of their spots, I’ve had a great time. I’m partial to their Old Town location, which is just far enough way from the tourist area to not be overrun, but close enough for a quick walk over if you’re seeing the sights. The Pupil IPA is widely available across the city and is hands-down their best beer. 6. Fall Brewing Company View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Another local brewery with a few locations, Fall Brewing is easy to love. Their Plenty for All Pilsner is always my go-to beer, which is the perfect change of pace from some of the IPA-heavy breweries on this list. Their Miramar location is the main spot, and it’s a quick drive from some of the other breweries on this list. It’s defenitely worth stopping by if you want a crisp lager over a hoppy IPA. 7. Coronado Brewing Company Technically Coronado Brewing Company is in Coronada, not San Diego, but it’s in the county and their beer is fantastic! Coronado Brewing is well known in San Diego, and their Salty Crew Blonde Ale encapsulates everything that’s great about the beach, boats, and sunshine; truly it’s the perfect summertime beer. You can find Coronado’s brews all over the city, but a quick stop over to their taproom in Coronado will also come with some of the best views of San Diego! 8. Modern Times Beer Modern Times is one of those brands that I always saw at the grocery store, but took way too long to realize it’s a San Diego staple. Their Mosaic IPA is one of my favorites to pick up at the store, and I always make a point to stop by their taproom in Encinitas when I’m in the area. If you’re staying in San Diego city limits, they have a spot in North Park that’s near other breweries (and great tacos). 9. Eppig Brewing You can find great beer just about anywhere in San Diego, but if you’re visiting then you’re here for some good weather and atmosphere. Eppig Brewing’s Waterfront Biergarten in Point Loma is literally right on the water in a harbor near where San Diego Bay meets the Pacific Ocean. They have good IPAs, but I alwasy prefer the Special Lager since it pairs so well with the sunshine. 10. Hopnonymous Brewing Hopnonymous is the type of place that reminds me of the good old days of craft beer, where breweries popped up out of nowhere and made it work. Based in Kearney Mesa (though locals would probably just say “Convoy”), Hopnonymous is a fun spot with a blend of traditional and creative beer styles. I love the Leaving Without Saying Goodbye Irish Red, but there’s always an interesting IPA on the menu worth trying. They also have a spot in Normal Heights, which might appeal more to locals looking for a new watering hole. Where to Brewery Hop in San Diego The breweries in San Diego may seem spread out at first glance, but

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Best Beer for Pizza: An Easy Pairing Guide

Thomas Short — Sat, 02 May 2026 17:31:55 +0000

Pizza and beer are a match made in heaven. Truthfully, you could pair nearly any type of pizza with any beer and get a winning combo. However, the right beer will make your slice of pizza taste even better, and vice versa. The main reason the pizza and beer pairing works so well is that the carbonation, bitterness, and clean finish of beer help the pizza flavors come through stronger while resetting your palate. Once you get to know how each of these elements affects what you eat, the pairings should start to make more sense. Quick Notes on Pairing Beer and Pizza Before getting into specific pairings for styles, let’s go over some high-level notes to keep in mind when pairing pizza and beer. Best Beer Pairing for Pizza Here are the best beers to pair with specific types of pizza. Margherita Pizza: Pilsner or Pale Ale Margherita pizza is about as simple as it gets: fresh tomato, basil, and mozzarella. You don’t want to pick a beer that overpowers the simple yet delicious pizza. A crisp, clean pilsner is a great pairing for Margherita. It’s light enough to work with the pizza without drowning out any flavor. A lighter pale ale should also work, as long as the hop profile is subtle and not overbearing. Beer to try: Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, Firestone Pivo Pils Pepperoni Pizza: West Coast IPA Pepperoni is salty, fatty, and a little bit spicy. A good West Coast IPA is an excellent match, so long as you don’t get anything too bitter. Look for a balanced IPA to help complement the spice and grease of the pepperoni. Beer to try: Stone IPA, Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, Ballast Point Sculpin White Pizza: Hazy IPA White pizza usually is a combination of garlic, olive oil, ricotta, mushrooms, and spinach. Beer won’t be competing with tomato sauce, so a hazy IPA should do the trick. A hazy brings lots of hop flavor while leaning on the juicy side, which should work really well with most white pizzas. Beer to try: New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Juicy Haze, Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing BBQ Chicken Pizza: Amber Ale or Märzen BBQ chicken pizza is smoky, sweet, savory, and underrated. The best pairing is something with good malt flavor, like an amber ale or a particularly malty lager like a Märzen. Malt brings a caramel flavor that works really well with the sweetness of barbecue sauce and chicken, and these beers are light enough to match well with thin crust BBQ pizza. Beer to try: Fat Tire Amber Ale, Paulaner Märzen Meat Lovers Pizza: Crisp Lager It might seem counterintuitive, but meat lovers and combo pizzas can be really heavy, and pairing it with a heavy beer can make you feel a little too full. Instead, try a crisp lager to elevate the individual ingredients of the pizza. Beer to try: Brooklyn Lager, Pacifico Veggie Pizza: Kölsch or Wheat Beer Vegetables, and by extension veggie pizzas, are light and delicate, so a heavy beer is not going to be the best choice. Instead, a nice kölsch works well with veggies without being too strong. A wheat beer can also be a nice choice, since these beers have a naturally bright and fruity flavor to them. If you want to get wild, a saison could also work really well with veggie pizza. Beer to try: Founders Solid Gold, Allagash White, Saison Dupont Hawaiian Pizza: Amber Ale No matter how you feel about pineapple on pizza, Hawaiian is popular for being sweet and salty all at once. Caramel malt sweetness is a natural fit for Hawaiian pizza, since it balances with the pineapple and works well with the ham. Fittingly, some good Hawaiian breweries make great amber ales! Beer to try: Kona Lavaman Red Ale The One Beer That Works With All Pizza If you don’t know what to get for your pizza, get a pilsner. Pilsners are incredibly well balanced, and they should pair excellently with just about every type of pizza. There are tons of pilsners out there, including some from local craft breweries that are definitely worth a try. Quick Reference: Best Beer for Pizza by Style Pizza Style Best Beer Match Margherita Pilsner or Pale Ale Pepperoni West Coast IPA White Pizza Hazy IPA BBQ Chicken Amber Ale or Märzen Meat Lovers Crisp Lager Veggie Kölsch or Wheat Beer Mushroom Pale Ale or Saison Hawaiian Amber Ale Spicy Hazy IPA or Wheat Beer

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