Discover the Joys of Best Beer Subscription Boxes: A Guide for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
Craft beer has exploded in popularity over the last decade, and it’s not showing any signs of slowing down. With so many different breweries, styles, and flavors to choose from, it can be overwhelming for even the most seasoned beer drinker. But fear not, my fellow beer enthusiasts! There’s a solution to this hoppy conundrum: beer subscription boxes. These delightful packages offer a curated selection of the best craft beers, delivered straight to your doorstep. So sit back, crack open a cold one, and let’s dive into the world of the best beer subscription boxes.
What Are Beer Subscription Boxes?
In a nutshell, beer subscription boxes are a service that provides a monthly (or quarterly) shipment of craft beers. Subscribers usually receive a set number of bottles or cans, handpicked by experts and tailored to their taste preferences. The goal of these services is to introduce beer lovers to new and exciting brews from across the country (and sometimes the world), without the hassle of hunting them down one by one.
Why Should You Give Beer Subscription Boxes a Try?
There are several reasons why beer subscription boxes are a fantastic idea for any craft beer enthusiast:
- Discover new favorites: With a beer subscription box, you’ll be introduced to brews you might never have found on your own. You could fall in love with a new style or find your new go-to brewery.
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Convenience: No need to scour your local liquor store or make a pilgrimage to a specialty beer shop. Beer subscription boxes bring the best of the craft beer world right to your doorstep.
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Expert curation: Who better to select your monthly brews than a team of beer aficionados? These services often employ beer experts who taste and evaluate countless beers to curate the perfect selection for you.
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Expand your palate: Just like with wine, there’s a whole world of flavors and nuances to discover in craft beer. Beer subscription boxes encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and try styles you might not have considered before.
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Great for socializing: What better way to impress your friends than with a diverse selection of craft beers when they come over for a gathering or watch party?
Ready to dive into the world of beer subscription boxes? Grab a pint and keep reading as we explore the best options out there!
The Best Beer Subscription Boxes for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
In this section, we’ll cover the top beer subscription services available. Each of these boxes offers something special, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your beer-loving needs.
1. Craft Beer Club
The Craft Beer Club is a popular choice among beer aficionados. This subscription service focuses on beers from small, independent breweries across the United States. Each shipment contains 12 beers from two different breweries (two different styles, with three of each), allowing you to explore the diverse landscape of American craft beer.
Pricing: $44.75 per month, with free shipping.
What sets it apart: Craft Beer Club includes a newsletter with each shipment, offering information about the featured breweries, food pairing suggestions, and beer trivia. Plus, they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not happy with a particular selection, they’ll make it right.
2. The Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club
With over 20 years of experience, The Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club has earned its place as one of the best beer subscription services around. They offer four different subscription options, catering to a wide range of beer preferences:
- The U.S. Microbrewed Beer Club: This option offers a monthly shipment of 12 beers from two different American craft breweries (four styles, three of each).
- The International Beer Club: For those with a taste for international brews, this club offers six bottles of beer from two different non-U.S. breweries per month.
- The U.S. and International Variety Beer Club: A combination of the two previous options, subscribers receive six beers from a U.S. brewery and six from an international brewery each month.
- The Rare Beer Club: Designed for true beer connoisseurs, this club offers two to six limited-release, rare, and exclusive beers each month.
Pricing: Starting at $30.95 per month, plus shipping.
What sets it apart: The Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club offers a unique “Design Your Own Club” feature, allowing subscribers to combine their beer subscription with other monthly clubs, such as wine, chocolate, or cigars.
3. Tavour
Unlike a traditional subscription service, Tavour operates on a unique à la carte model. Subscribers create a personalized “beer crate” by selecting individual beers from Tavour’s daily offerings, which consist of limited-release, seasonal, and exclusive beers from around the world. Once your crate is full or you’re ready to ship, Tavour ships your beer straight to your door.
Pricing: Varies based on individual beer selections, with a flat shipping fee of $14.90.
What sets it apart: Tavour’s à la carte model allows for maximum customization and control over your beer subscription. Plus, they offer a mobile app (available on iOS and Android), making it easy to browse and select beers on the go.
4. Hop-Heads Beer Club
As the name suggests, the Hop-Heads Beer Club is perfect for those who can’t get enough of hoppy brews. This subscription service is dedicated to IPAs, Double IPAs, and other hop-forward beer styles. Each shipment contains 12 beers from three different craft breweries (three styles, four of each).
Pricing: $34.95 per month, plus shipping.
What sets it apart: If you’re a fan of hoppy beers, this is the subscription for you. Hop-Heads Beer Club focuses exclusively on IPAs and other hop-centric brews, making it a one-stop-shop for all your hoppy needs.
5. First Sip Brew Box
Looking for something a little different? First Sip Brew Box is more than just a beer subscription – it’s the ultimate beer lover’s experience. Each month, subscribers receive a box filled with beer-related goodies, such as merchandise, snacks, and other surprises from a featured craft brewery. While you don’t receive any actual beer in this box, it’s a fantastic way to learn about and connect with breweries across the country.
Pricing: Starting at $19.95 per month, plus shipping.
What sets it apart: First Sip Brew Box offers a unique, immersive experience, focusing on the stories and culture behind the breweries, rather than the beer itself.
Making the Most of Your Beer Subscription Box
Now that you’ve found the perfect beer subscription box for your taste buds, it’s time to make the most of your subscription experience. Here are some tips to enhance your beer-tasting adventures:
- Take notes: Jot down your thoughts on each beer you receive. This will help you remember your favorites and learn more about your personal preferences.
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Try new styles: One of the joys of beer subscription boxes is the opportunity to try beers you might not have otherwise experienced. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore new styles.
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Share with friends: Turn your beer-tasting sessions into a social event by inviting friends over to enjoy the brews together. Comparing thoughts and opinions can lead to interesting discussions and a greater appreciation for the beers.
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Pair with food: Experiment with pairing your beers with different foods to enhance the flavors and experience. Many beer subscription services provide food pairing suggestions, making it easy to try new combinations.
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Visit the breweries: If you’re traveling and find yourself near one of the breweries featured in your beer subscription box, make a point to visit! Touring a brewery is a great way to learn more about the brewing process and the people behind your favorite beers.
Cheers to Finding Your Perfect Beer Subscription Box
Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or just starting your journey into the world of beer, a subscription box is a fantastic way to explore new brews, broaden your palate, and share your passion with friends. So raise a glass to discovering the joys of the best beer subscription boxes, and happy tasting!