The US has been going through a beer renaissance in the last 10 years or so. Craft breweries have spread like wildfire, and people are finally starting to realize that watered-down Pilsner isn't the only kind of beer. If you haven't had American beer lately, it's time to revisit and taste the progress!
Personally I think that hops taste like pureed dandelions, and I'd much rather have a distilled spirit instead. But there are some highly-regarded PA, IPA, double IPA, etc. from around the country:
- Dogfish Head 60, 90, 120 minute IPA (Delaware)
- Stone Ruination IPA (California)
- Pliny the Elder (California)
- Firestone Walker Union Jack, Double Jack (California)
The closest thing I have to a go-to beer is Stone's Arrogant Bastard. It's hoppy, but has plenty of other flavors to balance it out. I like some of what Avery Brewing is doing too, making strong Belgian-inspired beers. Those dirty hippies in northern California and Colorado have been churning out some terrific brews.