Craft Beer of the Month Clubs in Chicago: Unleashing Your Inner Connoisseur
Craft beer has become increasingly popular in recent years, and Chicago is no exception. With a thriving craft beer scene, the city boasts some of the best breweries in the country. But with so much variety, it can be difficult to choose which beers to try. This is where craft beer of the month clubs come in they offer a curated selection of the best beers from local and national breweries, delivered straight to your doorstep. In this article, we will explore the benefits of joining a craft beer of the month club in Chicago and highlight some of the best options available.
The Popularity of Craft Beer in Chicago
Chicago has been at the forefront of the craft beer movement for many years, and it is easy to see why. According to Craft Beer Club, there are 144 registered craft breweries in the city, each offering unique flavors and styles of beer. From well-known breweries like Goose Island and Revolution Brewing to lesser-known craft groups like Two Brothers Brewing Company and Solemn Oath, Chicago has something for every beer connoisseur.
What is a Craft Beer of the Month Club?
If you are new to the world of craft beer of the month clubs, it can be helpful to understand what they are and how they work. Essentially, a craft beer of the month club is a subscription service that delivers a curated selection of craft beers to your doorstep each month. These beers are carefully selected by experts in the industry, and often include limited edition or exclusive brews that are not available in stores.
The Benefits of Joining a Craft Beer of the Month Club
There are several benefits of joining a craft beer of the month club, including:
- Convenience: With a craft beer of the month club, you don't have to go out and search for new beers to try they come straight to you.
- Variety: Each month, you will receive a selection of different beers, allowing you to try new styles and flavors that you may not have discovered otherwise.
- Expert Curation: The beers in a craft beer of the month club are carefully selected by experts in the industry, ensuring that you only receive the best quality brews.
- Education: Many craft beer of the month clubs include educational materials with each delivery, such as tasting notes and information about the breweries and styles of beer.
Craft Beer of the Month Clubs in Chicago
Now that you understand the benefits of joining a craft beer of the month club, let's take a look at some of the best options available in Chicago. Each of these clubs offers something unique and special, so be sure to choose the one that best suits your tastes and preferences.
The Growth of Craft Beer in Chicago
Chicago has long been a hub for beer production, with a rich history dating back to the 1800s. However, in recent years, the city has experienced a surge in craft beer production, with more and more breweries opening up and offering unique and creative brews. In this section, we will explore the growth of craft beer in Chicago and why it has become such a popular destination for beer lovers.
Statistics on the Growth of Craft Beer in Chicago
According to the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild, there are over 500 craft breweries in the state, with more than 160 of them located in the Chicago area. These breweries produce an estimated 1.2 million barrels of beer annually, contributing to the state's thriving beer industry. In fact, Illinois ranks sixth in the nation for craft beer production, with Chicago leading the way as the top beer-producing city in the state.
The Various Craft Breweries in the City
Chicago is home to a wide variety of craft breweries, each with its own unique style and approach to brewing. Some of the most well-known breweries in the city include:
- Goose Island Brewery: Founded in 1988, Goose Island Brewery is one of the most well-known and respected craft breweries in the city. They offer a wide range of beers, including their signature Goose IPA and Bourbon County Brand Stout.
- Revolution Brewing: With two locations in the city, Revolution Brewing is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. They offer a variety of year-round and seasonal beers, including their flagship beer, Anti-Hero IPA.
- Half Acre Beer Company: Known for their creative and experimental brews, Half Acre Beer Company has been a staple in the Chicago craft beer scene since 2006. They offer a variety of year-round and seasonal beers, including their popular Daisy Cutter Pale Ale.
- Pipeworks Brewing Company: Founded in 2012, Pipeworks Brewing Company has quickly become one of the most popular and respected breweries in the city. They specialize in small-batch, experimental brews, and offer a wide range of unique and creative beers.
Unique Flavors and Styles of Craft Beer Found in Chicago
One of the reasons why craft beer has become so popular in Chicago is the wide variety of flavors and styles available. From IPAs and stouts to sours and barrel-aged brews, there is something for every palate. Some of the unique flavors and styles that can be found in Chicago include:
- Chicago-style beers: Many breweries in Chicago offer beers that are inspired by the city itself, such as the Chicago Common, a steam beer that was first brewed in the city in the 1800s.
- Barrel-aged beers: Chicago is known for its barrel-aged beers, which are aged in oak barrels that have been used to age whiskey, bourbon, or wine. These beers often have complex flavors and are highly sought after by beer enthusiasts.
- Sours: Sour beers have become increasingly popular in Chicago in recent years, with many breweries offering unique and creative sour brews.
The Role of Craft Beer of the Month Clubs in Promoting Local Breweries
Craft beer of the month clubs play an important role in promoting local breweries and helping them reach a wider audience. By featuring beers from local breweries in their monthly shipments, these clubs help to introduce new customers to the unique flavors and styles of beer that can be found in Chicago. Additionally, many craft beer of the month clubs offer exclusive or limited edition brews that are not available in stores, giving customers the opportunity to try something truly unique and special.
Top Craft Beer of the Month Clubs in Chicago
If you're looking to explore the world of craft beer in Chicago, joining a craft beer of the month club is a great way to do it. In this section, we will highlight some of the top craft beer of the month clubs in Chicago, each offering a unique selection of beers from local and national breweries.
The Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club
The Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club is a popular option for beer lovers in Chicago. They offer several different subscription options, including a U.S. Microbrewed Beer Club and an International Beer Club. Each box includes a selection of beers from small, independent breweries, many of which are located in the Chicago area. They also offer a Rare Beer Club, which includes limited edition and hard-to-find beers.
Hops Collective
Hops Collective is another great option for craft beer enthusiasts in Chicago. They offer several different beer of the month club packages, including a Canadian Craft Beer Club and a U.S. Craft Beer Club. Each box includes a selection of beers from different breweries, offering a wide variety of flavors and styles. They also offer free delivery in the U.S. and Canada.
The Beer Temple Monthly Beer Club
The Beer Temple Monthly Beer Club is a great option for those looking to explore a wide variety of craft beers. Each month, they hand-pick a selection of the finest beers from around the world, including several from local Chicago breweries. Each box includes seven to ten carefully chosen bottles and cans of various sizes, along with background information and tasting notes for each beer.
Craft Beer Club
Craft Beer Club is a popular option for those looking to try new and unique craft beers. Each box includes a selection of beers from small, independent breweries, many of which are located in the Chicago area. They also offer a variety of subscription options, including monthly, every-other-month, and quarterly shipments.
Tavour
Tavour is a unique craft beer of the month club that allows customers to choose which beers they want to receive. Each day, they offer a selection of new and limited release beers, which customers can add to their box. They also offer free shipping and a money-back guarantee.
Which Craft Beer of the Month Club is Right for You?
When choosing a craft beer of the month club, it's important to consider your personal tastes and preferences. Each of the clubs listed above offers something unique and special, so be sure to choose the one that best suits your needs. Whether you're looking to explore new and unique flavors or support local breweries in Chicago, there is a craft beer of the month club out there for you.
Benefits of Joining a Craft Beer of the Month Club in Chicago
Joining a craft beer of the month club in Chicago can offer several benefits for beer enthusiasts. In this section, we will explore some of the top benefits of joining a craft beer of the month club in Chicago.
Discover New Brews
One of the biggest benefits of joining a craft beer of the month club is the opportunity to discover new and unique brews. Many clubs feature beers from small, independent breweries that may not be available in stores. This gives you the chance to try new and exciting flavors and styles that you may not have otherwise discovered.
Support Local Breweries
By joining a craft beer of the month club that features beers from local breweries, you are supporting the local craft beer scene in Chicago. This helps to ensure that these small, independent breweries are able to continue producing unique and creative brews, and that the beer culture in Chicago continues to thrive.
Convenience
Another benefit of joining a craft beer of the month club is the convenience factor. Instead of having to go to a store and browse through the selection, your monthly box of beers is delivered right to your doorstep. This is especially convenient for those who may not live near a specialty beer store or who have busy schedules.
Education and Tasting Notes
Many craft beer of the month clubs include educational materials and tasting notes with each shipment. This can help you learn more about the different styles and flavors of beer, as well as how to properly taste and appreciate each brew. This can be especially helpful for those who are new to the world of craft beer.
Exclusive or Limited Edition Beers
Some craft beer of the month clubs offer exclusive or limited edition beers that are not available in stores. This gives members the opportunity to try something truly unique and special, and can be a great way to impress friends and family with your knowledge of craft beer.
Cost Savings
Finally, joining a craft beer of the month club can be a cost-effective way to try new and unique craft beers. Many clubs offer discounts on monthly subscriptions or on purchases of multiple months at once. Additionally, the cost per bottle or can is often lower than what you would pay at a specialty beer store.
Final Thoughts
Joining a craft beer of the month club in Chicago is a great way to explore the world of craft beer, support local breweries, and try new and unique brews. With so many great options available, there has never been a better time to become a member of a craft beer of the month club.
How to Choose the Right Craft Beer of the Month Club for You
With so many craft beer of the month clubs available in Chicago, it can be challenging to choose the right one for you. In this section, we will explore some key factors to consider when choosing a craft beer of the month club.
Subscription Options
One of the first things to consider when choosing a craft beer of the month club is the subscription options available. Some clubs offer a range of subscription lengths, from monthly to quarterly, while others may require a longer commitment. Consider how frequently you want to receive your beer and what kind of flexibility you need in your subscription.
Beer Selection
Another important factor to consider is the beer selection. Some clubs focus on local breweries, while others offer a wider variety of beers from around the country or even the world. Consider what kind of beers you enjoy and whether you want to try something new or stick with your favorite styles.
Educational Materials
If you are new to the world of craft beer, you may want to choose a club that offers educational materials and tasting notes with each shipment. This can be a great way to learn more about different styles of beer and how to properly taste and appreciate each brew.
Cost
Of course, cost is always an important factor to consider. While some craft beer of the month clubs can be quite affordable, others can be more expensive. Consider your budget and what you are willing to spend each month for your beer subscription.
Delivery Options
Finally, consider the delivery options available. Some clubs offer free shipping, while others charge for delivery. Additionally, consider how the beer is shipped and whether it will arrive in good condition. You may also want to consider whether the club delivers to your area before signing up.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right craft beer of the month club in Chicago can be challenging, but by considering factors such as subscription options, beer selection, educational materials, cost, and delivery options, you can find the club that is right for you. Whether you are looking to explore new flavors, support local breweries, or just enjoy a great beer at home, there is a craft beer of the month club out there for you.
Cheers to the Best Craft Beer of the Month Clubs in Chicago
Joining a craft beer of the month club in Chicago is a great way to explore the world of craft beer, support local breweries, and try new and unique brews. In this article, we have highlighted some of the top craft beer of the month clubs in Chicago, each offering a unique selection of beers from local and national breweries. We also explored the benefits of joining a craft beer of the month club and how to choose the right one for you.
If you are a craft beer enthusiast in Chicago, we hope this article has been helpful in guiding you towards the perfect beer of the month club for you. For more great content related to craft beer and Chicago, be sure to check out our other articles and resources.
Cheers to great beer, and happy exploring!
Questions & Answers
Who can join a craft beer of the month club in Chicago?
Anyone of legal drinking age who enjoys craft beer can join a club.
What kind of beers will I receive from a Chicago craft beer of the month club?
You will receive a selection of unique and carefully curated craft beers.
How often will I receive my craft beer of the month club shipment?
Most clubs offer monthly shipments, but some also offer quarterly or bi-monthly options.
What if I don't like one of the beers in my craft beer of the month club shipment?
Most clubs offer a satisfaction guarantee and will replace any beers you don't like.
How much does it cost to join a craft beer of the month club in Chicago?
Prices vary depending on the club and subscription length, but most are affordable.
What if I'm not home to receive my craft beer of the month club shipment?
Many clubs offer delivery options such as holding at the post office or scheduling for a later date.
