(listed from left to right)
1. Briarberry Sour: Brewed with raspberry and blackberry, this tart selection from Brueprint Brewing Co. in Apex tastes like a liquid starburst. ABV: 4.5%
2. White Zombie Ale: A light Belgian witbier from Catawba Brewing Co. in Morganton, this is a good pick for that uncultured friend who’s just delving into the world of craft brews. ABV: 5.1%
3. Citropica: Fruity and dry and very light, this IPA from Sycamore Brewing in Charlotte is perfect after a long day of yard work. ABV: 6.8%
4. Grove: You’ve probably heard a lot about Brewery Bhavana in Raleigh — and if this beer is any indication, it’s for good reason. This hazy imperial IPA is slightly thick, in a good way, and goes down as easy as orange juice. ABV: 8%
5. Voodoo Wit: Another witbier, this one from Koi Pond Brewing in Rocky Mount. It’s brewed with blood orange and leaves you with lingering notes of ginger. ABV: 6.7%
6. What He’s Having: This IPA by Wooden Robot in Charlotte is sweeter than most, but finishes with enough bitter notes to satisfy die-hard hopheads. ABV: 6.5%
7. Tropical Lightning: With strong notes of citrus and pine, Wilmington Brewing Co. has made a hoppy and deliciously bitter IPA. ABV: 7.4%
8. Trubulent Flight: No, that’s not a typo. And using apricot puree rather than grain wasn’t a mistake, either. This hazy Imperial IPA from Bond Brothers in Cary is a gem. ABV: 8.1%
No, we didn’t forget Southern Pines Brewing Co. Try the Carl Goosetav, so loaded with fruit that it should have its own spot on the food pyramid.
