Let us raise our metaphorical pint glasses and dive into the trends that were supposed to shape the craft beer industry in 2024. While the craft beer landscape has matured (like a fine barrel-aged stout), it is still bubbling with creativity and innovation. Here are some trends we were told to keep an eye on:
- Taprooms Evolve: Taprooms were anticipated to no longer be about beer—some said it is all about the experience. Sure, we still love those fresh pours straight from the source, but now breweries are stepping up their game. Picture this: live music, food trucks, and even a quirky trivia night. It is not just about what is in the glass; it is about the whole vibe. So, next time you visit a taproom, did you have an adventure?
- Service and Hospitality Matter: Historically, taprooms have not been known for their stellar service. But that is changing. Smiling bartenders, cozy seating, and even a friendly brewery dog—it is all becoming a part of the package. Because let us face it, a great beer tastes even better when served with a side of hospitality. Personally, I do not see a groundswell of hospitality yet.
- Non-Alcoholic and Mindful Options: Craft beer is not just for the buzz anymore. More breweries are exploring non-alcoholic and low-ABV options. Whether it is a hop-forward NA IPA or a crisp, alcohol-free lager, there is something for everyone. So, if you are looking to enjoy the flavors without the hangover, you are in luck!
- Creative Festivals and Events: Breweries are getting wild with their events. Think beer-and-yoga sessions, beer-and-cheese pairings, or even beer-and-painting nights. It is not just about Oktoberfest anymore (though we still love good polka). So, keep an eye out for quirky, beer-centric happenings at a taproom.
- Ditching Carbonation: Some beverage companies are shaking things up by ditching the fizz. Flat beer? Well, not exactly. But they are experimenting with still, uncarbonated brews. To quote on brewer, it is like beer’s sophisticated cousin—less burp, more contemplation.
- Consolidation for Survival: Breweries are teaming up, sharing resources, and collaborating. It is like a beer buddy system. By joining forces, they weather the storms together. So, expect more collab brews and partnerships. In the Reno area this is taking place for sure. You got to do what you got to do to survive.
- Brand Values Take Center Stage: Consumers care about more than just taste. They want to know what a brewery stands for. Sustainability, community involvement, diversity—these values matter. So, when you sip that IPA, you are also supporting a cause. I personally disagree with expecting guilt trips when going to a favorite taproom for a favorite beer. OK, maybe breweries should have an empty bourbon to stand on to publicly confess you did not recycle one empty can of Knee Deep when you forgot to crush it and look for a recycle can at your neighbor’s backyard.
Remember, while the explosive growth of craft beer may have plateaued, relatively speaking, it is still a vibrant and resilient community. So, whether you are sipping a hazy IPA, a sour ale, or a classic pilsner, know that craft beer is about hand crafting a product not easily done by average Joe’s.
Got any favorite beer styles or breweries about which you are excited? OK, now think about whether your local craft brewery implemented any of these changes forecasted at the start of 2024.