The Original Craft Beer Club Review: Unbiased Expert Analysis

If you're a craft beer enthusiast like me, discovering new and exciting brews is a constant adventure. Enter The Original Craft Beer Club, a subscription service that strives to satisfy our cravings for unique beers from across the nation. Their mission is to deliver a curated selection of top-quality, independent American craft beers right to your doorstep, offering a convenient and delightful way to explore the vast landscape of the country's brewing scene.

The club's offerings come in the form of monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly shipments, each containing 12 or 24 bottles of beer from two different breweries. With a focus on variety, the selections include four distinct styles in each shipment, complete with informative tasting notes and brewery information. On top of that, shipping is free within the contiguous United States, making the whole experience even more appealing to craft beer aficionados.

Key Takeaways

The Original Craft Beer Club provides a diverse range of independent American craft beers through a flexible subscription service
Each shipment includes beers from two breweries and offers four unique styles, accompanied by informative material about the brews and their producers
With free shipping within the contiguous U.S., this club offers a convenient and exciting way to discover new beer favorites

Original Craft Beer Club Overview

As a beer enthusiast, I was excited to learn about the Original Craft Beer Club. This club is dedicated to delivering a wide variety of craft beers from independent breweries across the United States, right to your doorstep. With free shipping within the contiguous U.S., it's a fantastic way for beer lovers like me to explore the vast world of craft beers without having to leave the comfort of home.

Each month, the craft beer club sends either 12 or 24 bottles of carefully curated brews, giving members a chance to enjoy styles and flavors they may not have come across otherwise. Whether you prefer hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or refreshing wheat beers, the Original Craft Beer Club has something for everyone. You can also choose the frequency of your shipments, with options for monthly, every two months, or quarterly deliveries.

I appreciate the effort they put into sourcing beers from over 8,000 craft breweries around the country, ensuring that the selections are both high in quality and diverse in taste. Each shipment comes with tasting notes and information about the breweries, which not only adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the tasting experience but also helps me learn more about the craft beer industry and the passionate people who create these amazing brews.

Their user-friendly website makes it easy for members to manage their preferences and track their shipments. Moreover, the Original Craft Beer Club offers a flexible membership, allowing you to modify the number of beers per shipment and the frequency of delivery, according to your personal taste and lifestyle.

In summary, my experience with the Original Craft Beer Club has been overwhelmingly positive. The variety of craft beers, dedication to independent breweries, and commitment to quality make it a must-try for anyone looking to expand their beer horizons. Cheers!

Breweries and Selection Process

Independent Breweries

As a member of The Original Craft Beer Club, I can confidently say that their focus on independent breweries makes a difference in the quality and variety of the craft beers I've received. By supporting independent craft breweries, this club introduces me to unique, small-batch beers that I might not have otherwise discovered. Some of these breweries have limited distribution, making the club's selections truly exclusive.

Beer Selection Process

When it comes to the beer selection process, I appreciate the effort put into curating a diverse range of styles and flavors. The Original Craft Beer Club selects four different beer styles from two breweries in each shipment, totaling 12 beers in every package¹. This variety ensures that I'm experiencing different tastes and expanding my beer palate.

To maintain their high standards, the club's expert panel evaluates hundreds of beers from a pool of independent breweries each month. They consider factors like quality, freshness, and taste to guarantee that they're delivering the best possible craft brews to club members². As a result, I can trust that every beer I receive is a well-crafted representation of its style and showcases the unique character of the brewery it comes from.

Overall, the commitment to independent breweries and the rigorous selection process make The Original Craft Beer Club a great choice for anyone looking to explore the diverse world of craft beers.

Footnotes

Subscription Service

Beer of the Month Club

As a fan of craft beers, I can confidently say that The Original Craft Beer Club's Beer of the Month Club is a great option for those who want to experience a wide variety of high-quality beers. Their monthly shipments are curated from top independent breweries, ensuring each delivery includes something unique and exciting. The IPA selections, in particular, have always piqued my interest, as they showcase the creativity and passion of microbreweries.

Beer Subscription Service

Their Beer Subscription Service is easy to navigate, allowing me to choose between 12 or 24 bottles per delivery, which can be sent monthly, every two months, or quarterly. It suits my needs, as I can tailor my subscription according to my lifestyle and preferences. Each box also includes a monthly newsletter with informative content about the included beers, breweries, and even some food pairing recommendations, allowing me to expand my beer connoisseur knowledge.

Rare Beer Club

One of the standout features of The Original Craft Beer Club is their Rare Beer Club offerings. As a craft beer enthusiast, I value the exclusivity and uniqueness of these high-quality selections, which are difficult to find elsewhere. The club's focus on rare and limited-release brews offers me the opportunity to savor some truly exceptional beers, while also learning about the stories behind them.

Throughout my experience with The Original Craft Beer Club, I have found their customer service to be helpful and responsive. They genuinely care about providing a top-notch experience for subscribers. I appreciate their dedication to delivering a wide variety of craft beers that cater to different tastes, and I'm always eager to explore the latest brews they feature in their subscription service.

Product Offerings and Varieties

As a member of The Original Craft Beer Club, I have experienced a diverse range of craft beers sent directly to my doorstep. In this section, I will discuss the product offerings and varieties found in the club's subscriptions.

Four Different Styles

Each shipment from The Original Craft Beer Club features four different styles of craft beers. This is an excellent way for me to explore various beer styles and flavors while still enjoying my favorite types of beers. For example, a shipment may include an American Pale Ale (APA), a Kölsch, an Imperial Stout, and a Belgian Dubbel. Each shipment contains a selection of 12 or 24 bottles, depending on the subscription plan chosen, which offers a great opportunity to share and enjoy these delicious beers with friends and family.

Range of Styles

The range of beer styles available in the shipments is impressive, spanning the entire spectrum of craft beers. I noticed that each shipment typically covers various craft beer styles, including APAs, Kölschs, Pilsners, Stouts, Porters, and more. This wide range of styles allows me to discover new flavors and varieties while also appreciating the craftsmanship behind each selection. Furthermore, the detailed tasting notes and brewery information included in each shipment provide insight into the brewing process and the unique characteristics of the featured beers.

I must say, being a part of The Original Craft Beer Club has significantly broadened my appreciation for craft beer. With each shipment, I eagerly look forward to exploring new flavors and styles that are handpicked by the club's experts. The club's commitment to showcasing independent, American craft beers ensures a unique and enjoyable beer-drinking experience every time.

Pricing and Shipping

Pricing Information

When it comes to the Original Craft Beer Club, I find their pricing to be quite reasonable. For a shipment of 12 beers, the cost is $42, which breaks down to just $3.50 per beer. In my opinion, this is a great price for craft beers delivered right to your doorstep. There are also options to receive 24 beers per month for those looking for a larger selection.

Free Shipping

One of the perks of joining the Original Craft Beer Club is the free shipping included with your subscription. This applies to deliveries within the contiguous United States, meaning you won't face any surprise shipping fees when your beers arrive. Do keep in mind, however, that if you live in Alaska or Hawaii, you will have to pay for shipping.

Inclusions

As a member of the Original Craft Beer Club, my subscription not only covers the beer selections but also comes with useful inclusions. With each shipment, I receive tasting notes and information about the breweries featured in the month's delivery. This gives me insights into the beers I am sampling and helps me appreciate the craft even more. Additionally, my subscription includes a free subscription to Beer Connoisseur, so I can stay updated on the latest beer news and trends.

Gift Options and Freebies

Gift Option Details

I found that The Original Craft Beer Club offers a flexible gift option system. You can choose between 12 or 24 bottles of craft beer to be delivered right to your door. The club allows for monthly, every two months, or quarterly beer shipments. This makes it easy for me to plan and accommodate various preferences or budgets. They also support smaller, independent breweries, ensuring a wide variety of craft beers to explore.

Free Gifts

As a member of this beer club, I am eligible for some free gifts. When I chose the three-month plan, I received a free bottle opener as a gift. This handy tool has become my go-to when opening my monthly beer shipments.

Magazine Subscription

One thing that sets this beer club apart for me is its inclusion of a monthly newsletter. This informative document is packed with tasting notes, detailed information on the microbreweries featured in that shipment, the best food pairing suggestions, and more. I find the newsletter to be a valuable resource that enhances my overall experience with the club.

Customer Reviews and Comparisons

Beer Club Reviews

I found that most customers are delighted with the Original Craft Beer Club, praising their selection of independent, American craft beers. Some subscribers appreciate the inclusion of 12oz bottles, making it easier for them to enjoy a wider range of tastes without the commitment of larger bottles. They also find the tasting notes, interviews, and recipes helpful in expanding their knowledge about various craft breweries.

However, a few customers mention that the club could provide more information on how they choose which breweries to feature. It's worth noting that they've curated boxes from a variety of small craft breweries, such as the Hamburg Brewing Company.

Comparisons with Competitors

When comparing the Original Craft Beer Club to other competitors, I'd say that it's the quality and exclusivity of their craft brews that make them an attractive option for beer drinkers. Their focus on featuring breweries from different U.S. regions ensures a diverse assortment of styles in every shipment.

In terms of pricing and pre-pay discounts, they seem to be on par with other clubs in the market. However, some competitors might offer more customization options and other selections, like beer from international breweries.

Ultimately, the Original Craft Beer Club shines in its commitment to supporting independent American craft breweries and offering a carefully curated experience for subscribers. It's a great choice for beer enthusiasts who enjoy exploring new flavors and learning about the stories behind the brews. So, if you're like me and want to support local craft breweries while sampling exclusive beer, it's a great choice.

Final Thoughts

As a craft beer enthusiast, I found that The Original Craft Beer Club offers a great variety of unique flavors and microbrewed beer options. It strikes a fine balance between affordability and choice, in comparison to other clubs like international beer clubs or the rare beer club.

I enjoyed the convenience and variety that the club provides by sourcing artisanal beers from local microbreweries. This allowed me to expand my beer knowledge and appreciate the craft of brewing on a deeper level. The beer selection is not limited to just bottled beer, as I also received some excellent canned beer options from various breweries.

In terms of frequency, I found the customization options allowed me to choose a suitable delivery schedule, giving me the flexibility that I need. This, combined with the good quality beer, made it truly worth my while.

One aspect that sets this club apart is the inclusion of freebies, such as a newsletter and tasting notes. These added touches made my overall experience with the club more engaging and enjoyable.

In summary, I would confidently recommend The Original Craft Beer Club to anyone looking to explore and appreciate the world of craft beer. This subscription service offers a diverse range of beer styles, flavors, and convenient delivery options that cater to the tastes of both novice and seasoned craft beer enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sets The Original Craft Beer Club apart from other beer clubs?

As a beer enthusiast, I appreciate that The Original Craft Beer Club focuses on promoting independent, American craft breweries, delivering fresh, high-quality beer. While they offer US-brewed beers only, it allows them to showcase the diverse range of beers produced across the country, providing a unique experience in each shipment.

How does the selection process work for The Original Craft Beer Club?

The process involves searching for the best craft beers among more than 8,000 microbreweries and brewpubs in the United States. After making their selections, the team at The Original Craft Beer Club thoroughly samples the beers to ensure they meet their high standards before including them in the subscription boxes.

What is the typical cost and membership plan for The Original Craft Beer Club?

The Original Craft Beer Club offers flexibility in their membership plans, allowing you to choose 12 or 24 bottles in each shipment, with options for monthly, every two months, or quarterly beer shipments. Pricing is transparent, and you can easily find current costs on their website.

Are there any additional benefits to subscribing to The Original Craft Beer Club?

Yes, there are additional benefits. In each shipment, The Original Craft Beer Club includes tasting notes and brewery information, enriching the overall tasting experience. Furthermore, they offer free shipping within the contiguous U.S.

How do customer reviews and ratings of The Original Craft Beer Club compare to other beer clubs?

While I cannot provide a direct comparison, it's worth noting that the Original Craft Beer Club has received some positive reviews and feedback. Although their claim to be original might not have specific credentials backing it up, their commitment to American craft beer and the experience they provide makes them an attractive option for beer enthusiasts.

Does The Original Craft Beer Club cater to specific preferences or styles of beer?

The club aims to showcase the best craft beers from around the United States, offering a diverse range of styles in each shipment. However, as they focus exclusively on American breweries, they do not cater to those looking for international beer selections. The variety they provide within the U.S. market is certainly worth trying for anyone interested in American craft beer.