Cigar City Brewing launched in Tampa, Florida back in 2009. And it's pretty safe to say their beers are just as popular here in Southwest Florida as they are in Tampa. My neighbors love the Jai Alia India Pale Ale. I'm still interested in trying the mango version of that one. But that's not the highest rated beer in Florida. The Cigar City Brewing beer that ranks even higher is their Imperial Stout.
Hunahpu's Imperial Stout - Double Barrel Aged is the highest rated beer in all of Florida. And how did this come about? VinePair consulted Beer Advocate’s list of top-rated beers. They only looked at beers that had more than 100 ratings on the website. As it turns out, with all the IPA's and tropical inspired beers here in Florida, an 11% stout ranked above them all.
Hunahpu's Imperial Stout was released back in 2010 and features additions of cinnamon, vanilla, cacao nibs, and chilli peppers to the recipe. The 2023 version is an 11.6% Imperial Stout brewed with a decadent blend of cacao nibs, vanilla beans, cinnamon, ancho, pasilla, and guajillo chile peppers.
Beer Advocate gives it a 100 score and has affixed the 'World Class" banner to it's ratings page.
Where can I get one? Yeah, I dunno.
Cigar City Brewing releases the beer to the public in March and then it sells out.
If you want to try it, you'll need to watch their socials for info and jump on it early. According to a release, CGB claims "next year we will be back in a BIG way" so maybe I'll find a way to get one in my hands. If you'd rather a seltzer, here's what's trending this fall.
Here Are The Top Hard Seltzers For Fall 2023
Seltzers have really taken off over the last few years and if you're looking for a new one to try, here are the top hard seltzers for fall 2023.
I've been a fan of the hard seltzers pretty much since they came out. They're my go-to for a beach day and when I'm sitting on one of the many Sanibel beaches, there's nothing more refreshing. I do have a few faves, but the Vizzy's, High Noon's and the Truly Tropical's are my mains. The flavors are great, not too sweet and don't have that weird sand paper mouth feel that some of them have. It's not just me who enjoys them. In recent years, hard seltzers have experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity. There seem to be new brands and flavors constantly solidifying their status as a dominant player in the alcoholic beverage industry.
Hard seltzers meteoric rise can be attributed to several factors.
First, hard seltzers are known for their refreshing, low-calorie, and low-sugar characteristics. For those reasons, health-conscious consumers looking for a guilt-free indulgence can find it in a hard seltzer. The wide array of flavors and a generally low alcohol content make them a versatile choice for different tastes and occasions. The convenience of the canned packaging goes great with outdoor activities and being able to take on the go.
Maybe you're looking to try something new, or just want to know what others are drinking. We previously reported on the top hard seltzers for summer. And a new study by YouGov shows us the top hard seltzers for fall 2023. You can check out the full list here. Below are the top 10.
10. WHITE CLAW ICED TEA MANGO
I like iced tea. And I like mango. I haven't tried this yet, but based on the combo here, I probably should.
9. TOPO CHICO
I have bought the variety pack in the past and like the flavors. If you like Topo Chico sparkling water, you'll like these hard seltzers.
8. COORS SELTZER
I haven't even heard of these and it sounds like they may be discontinued in the US. But they're described as "Crisp and perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness to elevate the tropical notes of a ripe, freshly sliced mango." Sounds good to me!
7. TRULY HARD SELTZER
Solid brand for hard seltzers. Pretty much every flavor I've tried I've enjoyed.
6. CORONA HARD SELTZER
I haven't tried these yet, but the flavors sound great. From blackberry citrus and strawberry kiwi to blueberry acai and raspberry lemon, I think I'll take one of each!
5. BLUE MOON LIGHT SKY
Interesting that this is considered a hard seltzer and not a beer. I like Blue Moon, so I thought this would just be a lighter version, but this one doesn't do it for me.
4. WHITE CLAW HARD SELTZER
Ain't no laws when you're drinking Claws! The OG comes in at #4.
3. TRULY PASSIONFRUIT
Big fan of Truly. Any of the tropical flavors are perfect for a beach day.
2. SMIRNOFF SPIKED SPARKLING SELTZER
These are another I'll have to add to my list. There are 8 different flavors, all with zero sugar and only 90 calories.
1. MIKE'S HARD LEMONADE SELTZER PINEAPPLE
I've had plenty of Mike's Hard Lemonade in my day, but never the seltzer. Add pineapple in there, it has to be good. Being #1 on the list is a great reason to try it!
