Top 10 Barrel-Aged Stout and Specialty Porter Brands in Export Markets
Introduction
Barrel-aged stouts and specialty porters have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their rich, complex flavors and unique aging processes. These beers are often aged in barrels that previously held spirits such as bourbon, whiskey, or rum, imparting additional layers of flavor to the brew. In this report, we will explore the top 10 barrel-aged stout and specialty porter brands that have made a significant impact in export markets.
1. Founders Brewing Co.
Founders Brewing Co., based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is known for its highly acclaimed barrel-aged stouts such as KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout) and CBS (Canadian Breakfast Stout). These beers are aged in bourbon barrels, resulting in rich flavors of chocolate, coffee, and bourbon. Founders has seen strong export growth, with a presence in markets across Europe and Asia.
2. The Bruery
Located in Orange County, California, The Bruery is renowned for its innovative barrel-aged beers, including specialty porters like Black Tuesday and Chocolate Rain. These beers are aged in a variety of barrels, from bourbon to wine, creating complex flavor profiles. The Bruery has expanded its export reach to include markets in Australia and Canada.
3. Goose Island Beer Co.
Chicago-based Goose Island Beer Co. is a pioneer in barrel-aged beer production, with its Bourbon County Brand Stout setting the standard for the style. This imperial stout is aged in bourbon barrels for over a year, resulting in flavors of dark chocolate, vanilla, and oak. Goose Island has a strong presence in export markets, particularly in the UK and Japan.
4. Firestone Walker Brewing Company
Firestone Walker Brewing Company, located in Paso Robles, California, is known for its barrel-aged stouts and porters, such as Parabola and Velvet Merkin. These beers are aged in a mix of bourbon, whiskey, and wine barrels, offering a diverse range of flavors. Firestone Walker has seen steady export growth, with a focus on European markets.
5. Fremont Brewing
Based in Seattle, Washington, Fremont Brewing has gained a reputation for its barrel-aged stouts and porters, including the popular B-Bomb and Dark Star. These beers are aged in a combination of bourbon, whiskey, and rum barrels, resulting in rich, decadent flavors. Fremont Brewing has expanded its export presence to include markets in Scandinavia and South America.
6. Cigar City Brewing
Hailing from Tampa, Florida, Cigar City Brewing is known for its innovative barrel-aged beers, such as Hunahpu’s Imperial Stout and Marshal Zhukov’s Imperial Stout. These beers are aged in a variety of barrels, from bourbon to brandy, creating unique flavor profiles. Cigar City has seen strong export growth, with a focus on markets in Europe and Asia.
7. Deschutes Brewery
Based in Bend, Oregon, Deschutes Brewery is renowned for its barrel-aged stouts and porters, including The Abyss and Black Butte Porter XXIX. These beers are aged in a mix of bourbon, whiskey, and wine barrels, resulting in complex, layered flavors. Deschutes Brewery has a strong export presence, with a focus on markets in Canada and the UK.
8. Avery Brewing Co.
Avery Brewing Co., located in Boulder, Colorado, is known for its bold barrel-aged beers, such as Uncle Jacob’s Stout and Tweak. These beers are aged in bourbon barrels, imparting rich flavors of dark chocolate, coffee, and bourbon. Avery Brewing has expanded its export reach to include markets in South America and Asia.
9. Three Floyds Brewing Co.
Based in Munster, Indiana, Three Floyds Brewing Co. is recognized for its barrel-aged stouts and porters, including Dark Lord and Wigsplitter. These beers are aged in a mix of bourbon, whiskey, and rum barrels, offering a wide range of flavors. Three Floyds has seen export growth, with a presence in markets across Europe and Australia.
10. Almanac Beer Co.
Located in San Francisco, California, Almanac Beer Co. is known for its barrel-aged sour stouts and porters, such as Dogpatch Sour and Barrel Noir. These beers are aged in wine barrels with added fruit, resulting in tart, complex flavors. Almanac Beer Co. has expanded its export reach to include markets in Asia and the Middle East.
In conclusion, the top 10 barrel-aged stout and specialty porter brands in export markets have made a significant impact with their innovative brewing techniques and unique flavor profiles. These breweries have seen strong export growth, reaching markets around the world and appealing to beer enthusiasts seeking complex, high-quality brews.
