Houston’s craft beer scene has exploded, making it a national leader in microbreweries, craft brews and all things beer. Crack one open while you check out which breweries students voted as Houston’s best.
[tabgroup] [tab title=”1st place: Saint Arnold”]
Courtesy of Saint Arnold
Open since 1994, Saint Arnold is the state’s oldest craft brewery. Its most sought-after brews are the crisp Lawnmower and the punchy Elissa IPA. But Saint Arnold brews 23 beers a year on a rotational basis, including Pumpkinator, which is known to sell out of grocery and liquor stores within hours of being stocked.
What you should try:
Summer Pils is one of Saint Arnold’s freshest brews. The Germain pilsner has a medium body and hoppy notes. It has a sweet malt taste and is full-bodied but doesn’t bog you down after a pint or two.
Santo is a malty brew and drinks like a darker ale. It might be pretty gritty if you aren’t a big beer drinker, but its dark malt flavor promises a smooth punch.
[/tab] [tab title=”2nd place: Karbach”]
Courtesy of Karbach
What you should try from Karbach…
Love Street Summer Seasonal is extremely refreshing. It’s a Kolsh-style, meaning it’s a tad floral but lighter than the Rodeo Clown. The hoppiness (the beer’s earthiness or bitterness) is fairly medium in this brew.
Rodeo Clown Double IPA still packs a mean punch, but it’s a fairly floral, fruity IPAs. This isn’t a beer you should plan on chugging. Instead, pair it with fried food or a spicy Mexican dish.
[/tab] [tab title=”3rd place: 8th Wonder”]
File photo/The Cougar
What you should try from 8th Wonder…
Rocketfuel is a porter infused with dark, cold brew coffee and lactose. It’s a cult favorite and a great excuse for drinking before noon.
The best thing about Intellectuale is that it’s light and easy to drink, but this blonde-wit hybrid is bursting with floral notes and faint hints of sweetness. Sip it on a patio.
[/tab] [/tabgroup]“Coogs Choose” is a special section produced by The Cougar in collaboration with the Center for Student Media that spotlights students’ favorite places and activities around campus and Houston. Pick up the magazine at campus newsstands until April 22.
