For craft beer enthusiasts and adventurous drinkers alike, beer of the month clubs present a unique opportunity to discover and explore the ever-growing world of beer. These subscription services allow subscribers to experience a wide array of flavors, styles, and breweries from the comfort of their own homes. By offering a carefully curated selection of the finest brews, beer clubs introduce new and exciting tastes that are sure to delight even the most devout beer connoisseur.
While there are many beer clubs to choose from, the perfect one depends on budget, delivery options, and personal preferences. When selecting a club, it is important to consider factors such as selection and curation processes, shipping costs and inclusivity, and the overall variety of beers provided. Some clubs primarily focus on local, domestic brews, while others may include an international selection for those interested in broadening their horizons.
The goal of any beer of the month club should be to provide subscribers with an enjoyable experience that is equal parts engaging and educational. The best clubs not only offer a diverse selection of superior quality beers, but also provide tasting notes and background information for each featured brew. This enables subscribers to not only delight in the rich flavors of their monthly discoveries, but also to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the craft behind each carefully crafted beer.
What Are Beer of the Month Clubs
Beer of the Month Clubs are subscription-based services that deliver a curated selection of craft beers to members every month. These clubs aim to introduce beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike to a variety of unique and high-quality beers from breweries across the country or around the world. They often provide an enjoyable and convenient way for individuals to try new beers and broaden their palates without leaving the comfort of their homes.
Most clubs focus on selecting beers from smaller, independent, and often lesser-known breweries. This not only supports the craft beer industry but also ensures that subscribers are introduced to rare and exclusive brews they might not otherwise encounter. Each month, a club’s selection typically includes a variety of beer styles, such as IPAs, pilsners, stouts, and more, to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
In addition to the beer itself, some clubs also provide detailed tasting notes, brewery profiles, and pairing suggestions for members to enhance their beer-tasting experience. They may also offer options for customization, such as allowing members to choose their preferred beer styles or delivery frequency.
When it comes to pricing and memberships, Beer of the Month Clubs can vary greatly. Some clubs provide more affordable options with a lower number of beers per month, while others offer premium services with larger selections and additional perks. Most of these clubs have flexible subscription plans, allowing members to pay on a month-by-month basis, commit to a longer-term plan, or even gift a subscription to friends and family.
Top 5 Best Beer of the Month Clubs
Hop-Heads Beer Club
The Hop-Heads Beer Club, a specialized option offered by the Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club, focuses on hop-heavy beers. Selections include IPAs, double IPAs, Imperial IPAs, session IPAs, hoppy pale, and red ales. This club is an excellent choice for those who love hoppy flavors.
U.S. Microbrewed Beer Club
This club is known as the best all-around beer club, the U.S. Microbrewed Beer Club offers a wide variety of microbrewed American beers from small breweries. Each month, subscribers receive a 12-pack containing four unique types of beers.
Craft Beer Club
At an affordable price, the Craft Beer Club features 12 beers: three of each beer in four distinct styles. With free shipping within the continental US, the Craft Beer Club allows users to taste fresh craft beers from breweries across the country.
Beer Drop
Beer Drop stands out for its customization, allowing subscribers to tailor their subscription based on personal preferences. With various options and a range of small-batch craft brews, Beer Drop offers a unique beer tasting experience each month.
The Rare Beer Club
Known for collaborating with elite breweries, The Rare Beer Club provides access to limited edition and exclusive beer offerings. Members enjoy one-of-a-kind brews from award-winning breweries such as Jester King, Garden Path Fermentation, and The Lost Abbey, elevating their beer tasting experience.
Benefits of Joining a Beer Club
Discovering New Brews
One of the primary benefits of joining a beer club is the opportunity to discover new brews. With thousands of craft breweries around the world, it’s impossible to try them all. A beer of the month club curates a selection of beers from small, independent breweries, exposing members to new flavors and styles they might not have discovered otherwise.
Convenience
Another advantage of joining a beer club is the convenience it offers. Receiving a monthly delivery of carefully selected beers means subscribers don’t have to spend time searching for new breweries to try or driving to various locations to purchase their favorite beers. The club does the work of sourcing and selecting the beers and delivers them straight to the subscriber’s doorstep.
Exclusive Access
Members of beer clubs often enjoy exclusive access to limited-release or special edition beers that are not readily available to the general public. This exclusive access enhances the overall experience for beer enthusiasts, since they can try rare and unique brews that they wouldn’t have had the chance to taste otherwise.
In summary, joining a beer club offers several enticing benefits, including the opportunity to discover new brews, the convenience of having unique and high-quality beers delivered, and exclusive access to limited-release selections. For those who love trying new beers and want to expand their horizons, a beer of the month club may be the perfect solution.
How to Choose the Best Beer of the Month Club
When selecting the best beer of the month club, there are several factors to consider. This section will help guide you through the decision-making process by discussing some key aspects, including pricing and budget, shipping and availability, beer selection, and club features and perks.
Pricing and Budget
One of the first things to consider when choosing a beer of the month club is how much you are willing to spend. Each club has different pricing structures, so it is essential to select a club that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that some clubs offer better value than others based on the variety and quality of beers included.
Shipping and Availability
Before subscribing to a beer club, it is essential to check the shipping policies and availability. Some clubs may not ship to certain areas due to state or international laws. You should also consider shipping costs and how they affect the overall value of the club. Make sure the club’s shipping schedule aligns with your preferences, such as monthly or quarterly deliveries.
Beer Selection
A crucial aspect of any beer of the month club is the variety and quality of the beers offered. Look for clubs that feature a diverse selection of styles and flavors, as well as those that cater to your specific tastes. Some clubs may focus on local or regional breweries, while others may include international offerings. If you have a preference for a specific type of beer, like IPAs or stouts, make sure the club has a wide selection of that style.
Club Features and Perks
Lastly, consider the additional features and perks offered by each club. Some clubs may include exclusive beers not available elsewhere or provide access to limited-release brews. Other clubs might have educational components, like newsletters or tasting notes, to enhance your beer-drinking experience. Some clubs even offer discounts on reorders or brewery merchandise for their members. Compare these features when selecting the club that best suits your needs.
FAQs About Beer Clubs
What types of beer can be expected in a beer of the month club?
Subscribers can expect a wide variety of beer styles from different breweries in their monthly shipments. This may include IPAs, lagers, stouts, ales, and more. Beer clubs often strive to provide members with unique, limited-release, and rare brews that may be hard to find in local stores.
How much does a beer club membership usually cost?
Membership fees for beer clubs may vary depending on the club and the beers offered. Prices generally range from $35 to $50 per month, plus shipping costs. Some clubs may offer lower subscription costs for longer commitments or provide discounted options with fewer beers per month.
Is it possible to choose the types of beer to be received each month?
Some beer clubs may offer a customized subscription, allowing members to choose the styles of beer they prefer or even specify a favorite brewery. However, many clubs curate the selection to provide a diverse and exciting experience, which may not allow for individual preferences.
Are there any restrictions on shipping beer to certain states?
Due to differing regulations, beer club shipping may be restricted in certain states. Before subscribing, be sure to check the club’s shipping policies and verify that they can deliver to your location. State laws are subject to change, so it’s essential to stay informed about any updates.
Can beer clubs cater to specific dietary needs or preferences?
While many clubs focus on providing a broad range of beer styles, some clubs may offer specialized options for specific preferences or dietary needs, such as gluten-free or organic beers. Thoroughly research the available clubs to find one that caters to your individual tastes.
Conclusion
In summary, there are a variety of beer of the month clubs available, each catering to different tastes and preferences. Some notable clubs include The Original Craft Beer Club, Beer Drop, and The Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club.
The Original Craft Beer Club is recognized for its overall quality and consistently delivering exceptional craft beers from around the United States. Beer Drop stands out for its impressive variety, offering members a wide range of beer styles from numerous breweries. Additionally, The Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club offers great value, providing subscribers with a well-rounded selection of domestic and international beers.
When selecting a beer of the month club, potential members should consider factors such as affordability, diversity of beer offerings, and any unique preferences they may have. Moreover, it is crucial to explore the shipping policies and additional perks of each club to ensure a positive experience.
Ultimately, joining a beer of the month club offers enthusiasts the opportunity to discover new flavors, support craft breweries, and expand their palates while enjoying a regular supply of quality brews. Cheers to finding the perfect club to satisfy your beer cravings!
