Craft Beer Trends to Watch This Year
The craft beer world is always evolving, and every year brings new flavors, styles, and creative twists from breweries across the country. At Boones Wine & Spirits, we love keeping up with these shifts so we can stock the beers our customers are excited to try. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a dedicated beer enthusiast, here are the trends shaping the craft beer scene this year.
One of the biggest movements is the rise of lighter, more approachable beers. For a while, heavy IPAs and bold stouts dominated the craft market, but many drinkers now want something refreshing and easy to enjoy. That’s why lagers and pilsners are making a comeback. Brewers are putting their own spin on these classic styles by using unique hops and creative brewing techniques, creating beers that are crisp and drinkable without being boring. These lighter options are perfect for warm weather, barbecues, or just enjoying with friends.
Another trend is the focus on local and sustainable ingredients. Craft breweries have always prided themselves on creativity, but now more are working directly with local farmers and suppliers to source their grains, hops, and even fruits or herbs. This not only supports the local economy but also produces beers that taste fresher and more unique. At the same time, sustainability is becoming a bigger priority. Many breweries are experimenting with water conservation, renewable energy, and recyclable packaging. Customers today care about how their drinks are made, and breweries are responding.
Flavored and experimental beers are also continuing to grow. Beyond traditional fruit-infused styles, we’re seeing adventurous flavors like coffee, chocolate, peanut butter, and even desserts like s’mores or key lime pie. While not every experiment becomes a long-term favorite, these bold brews keep the craft scene exciting and give drinkers something new to look forward to. If you like surprises, keep an eye out for small-batch or seasonal releases from local breweries—we often get them in limited quantities, and they’re worth trying before they’re gone.
Low-alcohol and non-alcoholic craft beers are another category gaining traction. Many people want the taste and experience of craft beer without the higher ABV, whether for health reasons, lifestyle choices, or simply to enjoy a longer evening without feeling weighed down. Breweries are investing in brewing methods that deliver full flavor even at low or zero alcohol levels. This is a big shift from a few years ago, when non-alcoholic beers were an afterthought. Now, they’re flavorful, complex, and appealing to a wider audience.
Lastly, the craft community itself continues to grow and connect. Beer festivals, tap takeovers, and collaborations between breweries are more popular than ever. Collaborations are especially fun because they combine the creativity of two breweries into one unique beer. These projects often lead to exciting limited releases that you won’t find again, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
At Boones Wine & Spirits, we stay tuned to these trends so we can bring the best selection of craft beers to our shelves. Whether you’re curious about the newest lager, want to try a dessert-inspired stout, or are exploring non-alcoholic options, we can help you find the perfect brew. The beauty of craft beer is that there’s always something new around the corner, and part of the fun is discovering your next favorite. Stop by and let us show you what’s trending right now in the craft beer world—you just might find a new go-to drink.
