Let’s face it; beer and manliness have always gone hand in hand. But there is a new genre of brew emerging during this era of green that may not carry that “manly” connotation. I am talking about organic beer. Organic beer is not only better for you, but it’s better for the environment. But some of you may think “organic beer doesn’t even taste right” or “organic beer is for sissies”. Well think again! The list below includes awesome organic brews that will leave you saying “may I have another?”. It seems these beer connoisseurs have found the perfect compromise.
Before we move onto the list however, let’s define what an “organic beer” really means. It means that ingredients are grown naturally. No insecticides, herbicides, fungicides or fertilizers are added. Also this means that there are no food additives (including artificial flavoring), so you know that the aroma of hops your organic beer is emanating is for real. The criteria for organic certification are too many to list here, but just trust me there are a lot. (To read more about that, go here (link to USDA organic site). So, the truth is organic beer is better for you and they don’t contain chemical additives that kill a number of species annually.
Pinkus Muller traces its origins to 19th century northern Germany (for you beer novices out there, Germany is where some of the best beer comes from). The company was founded in 1816 and their manufacturing processes remained pretty much the same since. This makes Pinkus the granddaddy of all organic beers. Today, they produce four different organic flavors guaranteed to be good, considering the pedigree. Keep on trucking fellas.
Wolaver’s Brewery running out of the much-respected, Otter Creek Brewing Company is dedicated to the hard work necessary in making a “pure” beer. Their label depicts three men in the field threshing barley by hand reflecting their do-it-yourself attitude. Their nine flavors were patiently devised to fit every beer drinkers taste.
Roots beer is most famous for their unique ingredient choices. The addition of roses, juniper branches and sage really gives their beer a zesty kick. Roots hails from Portland, Oregon. They take pride in their Pacific Northwest style of brewing. Also, dig their laid-back surf style label, classy. Maybe, they support all movements green.
Eel River was the first company ever that produced certified organic beer. Their product list includes six ales and one stout. Eel River is probably most famous for their Indian Pale Ale which is a must-have, but try the Raven’s Eye Imperial Stout. It’s 9.7% alcohol by volume. Talk about manly.
Mill St., a respected Canadian brewery created the first organic lager in Ontario in 2002. The German pilsner is light, crisp and refreshing. It’s on tap and in bottles at selected bars.
So, guys don’t shy away from ordering any of these brews at the bar next time: you will enjoy the taste and the fact that you are drinking organic beer may just be the perfect conversation starter with that girl you laid your eyes on. But of course remember to drink responsibly, no matter what type of alcohol you drink.
