My Top 5 Favorite Craft Beers

Don't mistake me for a beer snob but I love craft beers.  In fact, since I've been exposed to some great craft beers from taverns and restaurants in the Southern Tier, I find it hard to go back to the boring beers of Binghamton; you know what I'm talking about, the Buds, Labatts, and Coors of the refrigerators.

Much like US wineries, craft beers are created by small independent breweries with limited production runs and varied tastes.  Craft beer is usually far more complex than traditional beers and often feature full flavor and character. Often times, craft beers have more alcohol content then their corporate giant siblings.

So grab a mug and check out my top 5 list of craft beers favs:

#5-  Founders Breakfast Stout - It's not necessarily a beer to drink for breakfast but it sure is smooth after a long day hiking or when you get together with friends.

#4-  Dogfish Head 90-Minute IPA - Who says IPA's have to be bitter and strong?  This one is not and that's why it made my list.

#3-  Arrogant Bastard Ale -  I just like saying it and drinking it!

#2-  Ommegang - I was first introduced to the Ommegang brand on a trip to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.  I enjoy everything this brewery makes.  I suggest their Three Philosophers and Hennepin Saison Ale.  But you can't go wrong with anything with the Ommegang label.

#1-  Leinenkugel's Summer Shandy - With a mix of lemonade and wheat beer, this one only comes out in the Summer but it's well worth the wait.  This is the perfect refresher for a hot Summer day.  Traci's husband Jay actually introduced me to this a year ago and it's my #1 favorite. Don't be fooled by imitators, as everyone seems to have a Summer Shandy beer.  Stick with the original.

The best way to sample craft beers is with Binghamton On Tap, coming to Downtown Binghamton, Saturday, February 21st.  This beer fest will feature over 50 breweries, including some tasty brews made right here in the Southern Tier.  Click HERE for more information and to purchase tickets.