In the world of craft beer, 2024 has been a year filled with innovation and discovery. From remote corners of the globe to bustling urban centers, brewers have continued to push boundaries and introduce unique flavors. This article compiles ten exceptional beers that stood out, each offering a distinct taste experience. These selections span various styles and origins, reflecting both the diversity and creativity within the industry. The list not only highlights individual brews but also captures the spirit of exploration and collaboration that defines modern brewing.

A Global Exploration of Craft Beer Excellence

In the heart of Rome during a scorching summer day, Kyle Harrop, a renowned figure in the craft beer scene, found himself at Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fa, one of the finest beer bars he has ever visited. Among the myriad options, he chose Brasserie Cantillon "Scarabee-Timorasso". Despite the cacophony of soccer matches blaring from TVs and the sweltering heat, this lambic beer offered an exquisite balance between fruit and grain, with delicate acidity and rich oak notes that became more pronounced as it warmed.

Across the Tasman Sea in Wellington, New Zealand, Kyle arrived after a turbulent flight. His first stop was Garage Project’s bar in Aro Valley, where he sampled their California IPA. This beer, reminiscent of his hometown's offerings, boasted a robust Mosaic hop profile with berry and citrus aromas, making it a standout among the many kiwi beers he tried during his visit.

Following a memorable concert at The Gorge, Kyle ventured to Seattle, where he visited Holy Mountain’s Phinney Ridge location. There, he discovered "Hand of Midnight", a blend of two beloved brews. Its deep chocolate flavors, complemented by hints of toffee, raisins, vanilla, and caramel, made it a new favorite for Kyle.

In Montreal, Quebec, Kyle brewed with Messorem, sampling their barrel-aged imperial stout, "Gorilla’s Dream". This beer, infused with bananas and coconut, presented a harmonious mix of baker's chocolate and whiskey, leading to a tropical daiquiri finish—a remarkable achievement for a brewery known for fruity and hoppy creations.

During a summer trip to Chicago, Kyle stopped by Middle Brow for their famous tavern pizza and tried "You", a double barrel-aged saison conditioned on Michigan-grown raspberries. The vibrant red body and effervescent carbonation made it a perfect match for the humid Illinois weather.

In Iceland, Kyle encountered Riip Beer Company's "Long Term Memory Loss", a West Coast IPA celebrating the brewery’s tenth anniversary. This beer combined classic pine and citrus notes with modern Cryo hops, creating a nostalgic yet innovative drinking experience.

Back home, a bottle of RVK Brewing’s "Jolabrugg" from Iceland appeared unexpectedly. This amber-colored Christmas beer packed a surprising array of spices and flavors into its modest 5.2% ABV, leaving Kyle intrigued and delighted.

On a hot day in Prague, Kyle ventured to Strahov Monastery and tried their "Poutni Gratzer". This smoked Grodziskie, enhanced with Nelson hops and saffron, offered a crisp lager experience with high carbonation, challenging traditional expectations.

After returning from Europe, Kyle tasted Sierra Nevada’s "The Maltose Falcons 50th Anniversary Festbier". This malt-forward yet crisp festbier featured biscuit aromas and spicy hops, striking a perfect balance that surpassed many European counterparts.

Finally, Troon Brewing’s "Into The Waste Land", an Apple Brandy barrel-aged barleywine, impressed with its coconut cream pie-like richness. The warmth of the alcohol balanced the sweetness, delivering a dessert-like finish that redefined Kyle’s views on adjuncts in barleywines.

Reflections on a Year of Craft Beer Discovery

This journey through the top ten beers of 2024 underscores the evolving landscape of craft brewing. Each selection represents not just a delicious drink but a story of cultural exchange, innovation, and passion. For readers and enthusiasts alike, these beers remind us that there is always something new to discover in the world of craft beer. Whether exploring unfamiliar styles or revisiting favorites, the essence of craft brewing lies in its ability to surprise and delight, inviting us all to savor every sip with curiosity and appreciation.