An American Take on Irish Tradition: St. Patrick’s Day Beer
Ireland is famous for its rich, bone-warming stouts and easy‑drinking red ales, but you don’t need to limit yourself to imports to get into the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day. Some of the best American craft breweries are turning out beers that channel the classic styles of Ireland—with creativity, precision, and plenty of character.
This year, we’re spotlighting a handful of U.S. brews that make fantastic stand‑ins (or intriguing upgrades) to the traditional Irish lineup. Whether you love the dry snap of a classic stout, the subtle sweetness of an Irish red, or the crisp refreshment of a well‑built lager, these bottles and cans deliver all the comfort and craft you could want for the holiday.
Moonlight Brewing Co. "Death and Taxes" Black Lager $4.49 A delicious, smokey black lager with notes of roasted coffee and chocolate. This will be enjoyable for those that love lighter-bodied dry Irish stouts—just with a lager’s clean, snappy finish.
Fort George Brewery "Cavatica Stout" American Double Stout $3.99 For drinkers who love Guinness’s Foreign Extra Stout and want something with the volume turned up, Cavatica is a perfect match. It’s bold, rich, and unapologetically robust, with deep roasted malt and a satisfying weight on the palate.
Ghost Town Brewing "Verlust" Schwarzbier $4.24 A dark lager with classic German roots, but a flavor profile that makes it a brilliant Dry Irish Stout alternative. Flavors of dark chocolate, espresso, and a touch of warming spice—all wrapped in a smooth frame.
There Does Not Exist "Tsanta" Red Ale $3.99 Tsanta is malty, rounded, and beautifully balanced, offering caramel notes, gentle toast, and a refreshing finish. It’s everything you want in a red ale, without the heaviness.
Russian River Brewing Co. "Velvet Glow" Helles Lager $2.49 Ireland may be synonymous with stout, but lagers are actually the top‑consumed beer style across the country. Velvet Glow hits that sweet spot: crisp, clean, lightly malty, and endlessly drinkable. A perfect pick for anyone who prefers a lighter, sessionable option.
There Does Not Exist "Return To Earth" Oatmeal Stout $3.99 Silky, creamy, and smooth as can be, this oatmeal stout is ideal for fans of the richer, softer Irish stout tradition. Think chocolate, gentle roast, and a plush mouthfeel that practically begs for a cozy evening.