The trend in beer taste is that it continues to digress.

July 25, 8:14 AMBeer ExaminerCharlie Papazian

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Beer Vessels.  Courtesy of Brewers
Association

Is the US-beer culture evolving into ever bolder styles? Are there trends in taste? Is there a direction of the new creations?

            The evolution to "ever bolder styles is only ONE part of the menu of choices here in the USA. Let's not forget that pale ale, porter and stout were extraordinary bold styles when they first came on to the scene in the late 70s and early 80's. Now they are the mainstream and considered good old dependable styles of the craft beer segment. 

Things have changed with regard to beer drinkers attitudes toward beer, food and beverage in general. The beer culture has changed whereby there are hundreds of choices of brands and distinctive types of beer. Those who would never ever have been a beer drinker [if the only choice was light American-style lager] now have options. There are beer tastes and types for everyone.  

Will any small, independent brewer ever have a flagship brand such as Imperial India Pale Ale, or super strength barleywine, or triple-doublebock lager? No they will not. They are also not likely to become another Heineken, Inbev, A-B, Miller or Coors. That is not their goal.  

American brewers are beyond thinking of "just surviving." They are looking forward and exploring the exciting opportunities which brewing beer offers them. Consumers have grown and continue to expect pleasant surprises and innovative beer types.   

"Is the US-beer culture going to evolve into ever bolder styles?" I don't think so. At least not the way the question is asked. The American beer cuture continues to evolve into new creations, not necessarily meaning that new equals bolder. I think it evolves to different ways of making beer, new ingredients, new presentation, and new ways of nurturing attitudes with which beer drinkers can enjoy beer.   For example: beer and food; food cooked with beer; different beers for unique events.   The trend in taste is that it continues to digress - offering more variety and uniqueness... and this offers more value to beer drinkers.