Welp. Here we are. Halfway through the first month of a new year and quietly wondering to ourselves—what beers can I get excited about drinking now? January and February aren’t known for their seasonal releases, and the lack of new beers on the shelves and in the taprooms can leave you feeling like you’re in a bit of a slump. Don’t worry. You’re not alone, and we’ve got you covered.
For starters, there are still plenty of holiday releases available, and while overtly festive beers that taste like Christmas in a glass may no longer be calling to you, those strong barleywines and velvety stouts can still get you through many a cold winter evening. So, no shame in your game if you’re sticking with those late 2018 releases as long as you can.
If you’re looking for something new, though, you do have options! Uproxx compiled a list of some of their top picks hitting the shelves in January. It includes Sierra Nevada’s first-ever commercial sour, a trendy brut IPA from New Belgium, and a spiced white ale from Sam Adams. And you can always count on brewers to deliver something new and fun in the IPA category. Paste Magazine rounded up a few newer offerings from standbys like Anchor Brewing and Stone Brewing.
It’s also entirely possible that you’re partaking (or at least dabbling in) “Dry January.” If that’s the case, the new trend toward low and no alcohol beers will come in handy. The Drinks Business did some taste testing and published their top ten beers in this category, so even if your January is dry, it can still be delicious.
Of course, it should go without saying that the best way to get your fix of the latest and greatest beers is to grab your uKeg and head over to your local brewery. Try a few samples, get a fill of your fave, and settle in for a winter’s evening with friends.