Specialty Styles

Specialty styles are beers that break the rules, blending traditional brewing techniques with unusual ingredients or creative fermentation methods. This category includes everything from beers aged in bourbon barrels to brews infused with fresh fruit, spices, or wild yeasts. Because of this diversity, flavors range wildly. You might find a rich imperial stout tasting of dark chocolate and vanilla, or a tart, refreshing sour beer with a crisp, fruity finish.

When choosing a specialty beer, look at the label for clues about the base style and any added ingredients. The label will usually state if the beer has been barrel-aged, which adds complex oak and spirit notes, or if it features seasonal spices. These beers are fantastic for pairing with food. A rich, barrel-aged brew pairs beautifully with hearty roasted meats or dark chocolate desserts, while a bright, acidic wild ale cuts through rich cheeses and acts as a wonderful aperitif.