These Six States Are Becoming Craft Beer Powerhouses

​Whenever I travel, I get promiscuous with the local craft brews. This is why A) I don’t fit into some of my pants and B) I’ve come to understand that all 50 states have a handle on microbrewing. (Yes, even Utah.) It’s an idea that’s reinforced at the Great American Beer Festival, year after year: You say your kickass brewery is in Kiln, Mississippi? Sure, why the hell not.

Colorado, Oregon, and California: Okay, yup, we understand your beer prowess. And even Michigan, Washington, Wisconsin, or Vermont. You know you’re gonna get a heady brew if you’re landing in one of those states. But who’s up-and-coming? What territories that wouldn’t be labeled “beer states” are bubbling up the ill suds? Here are a handful. (No, not Utah.)

6. Ohio

As I found out at GABF, Ohio is now exporting something besides tires and pro sports disappointments. Great Lakes, out of Cleveland, is the standard-bearer. Almost all its beers are top-notch, from the cheekily named Burning River to its flagship, Dortmunder Gold. And the Christmas Ale is not to be missed from now until it runs out… CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL STORY AT INVERSE