Quick Summary
If you’re new to craft beer, start with styles that are smooth, balanced, and easy to drink. Light lagers, blonde ales, and pale ales are great entry points, with porters offering a softer introduction to darker beer styles.
Where to Start with Craft Beer
Getting into craft beer does not have to be complicated. If you are new to beer or just starting to explore beyond the basics, the best place to begin is with styles that are approachable, balanced, and easy to enjoy.
Craft beer is often associated with bold flavours and strong bitterness, but not every beer fits that stereotype. Many craft beers are smooth, refreshing, and perfect for people who want something flavourful without being overwhelming.
This guide is here to help new beer drinkers understand what to look for and where to start.
What Makes a Beer Beginner-Friendly?
For new beer drinkers, the best beers tend to share a few simple qualities:
- Smooth and easy to drink
- Balanced flavour without heavy bitterness
- Moderate alcohol content
- Clean finish that does not linger too long
Beers that are very bitter, very strong, or heavily spiced can be a lot at first. Starting with lighter and more balanced styles helps build confidence and enjoyment.
Shop online for local delivery or find MacLean’s at your nearest LCBO, Beer Store, or Circle K using our MacLean’s Craft Beer Map.
Light Craft Beers Are a Great Starting Point
Light craft beers are often the easiest entry into craft beer. They are crisp, refreshing, and familiar, especially for people who have mostly had mass-market lagers in the past. A well-made light craft beer still has flavour, but stays clean and easy on the palate.
If you are curious about what separates light craft beer from traditional options, our guide to Canadian light beer breaks it down clearly.
Pale Ales Offer Flavour Without Overpowering You
Pale ales are another excellent option for new beer drinkers. They offer more flavour than a light lager while staying balanced and approachable. Mild hop character and gentle malt sweetness make pale ales a comfortable next step.
If you want a deeper look at how pale ales fit into craft beer, this guide to Ontario craft beer offers helpful context.
Blonde Ales Are Smooth and Approachable
Blonde ales are often overlooked, but they are one of the most beginner-friendly craft beer styles available. Their clean profile makes them easy to enjoy in a wide range of settings.
For readers interested in how blonde ales compare to other styles, the Canadian beers overview is a useful reference point.
Porters Can Be Friendly Too
Dark beer can seem intimidating, but porters can be a surprisingly smooth entry point for new beer drinkers. Balanced porters often lean toward chocolate and caramel notes rather than bitterness.
If you want to learn more about porter styles and flavour profiles, this porter beer guide explains what to expect.
What to Avoid When You Are Just Starting Out
There is nothing wrong with bold beer styles, but they are not always the best place to begin.
You may want to ease into craft beer before jumping into:
- Very bitter IPAs
- High-alcohol beers
- Heavily spiced or experimental styles
Starting with simpler beers helps you understand what flavours you enjoy before exploring more intense options.
How to Explore Craft Beer at Your Own Pace
There is no right or wrong way to get into craft beer. Take your time, try different styles, and pay attention to what you enjoy.
A few helpful tips:
- Try beers in different settings, like with food or with friends
- Share beers so you can sample without committing to a full pint
- Keep notes on what you like and dislike
Craft beer is meant to be enjoyed, not studied.
A Great Place to Start with MacLean’s Beer
MacLean’s offers several beers that are especially well suited for new beer drinkers. From light and crisp options to smooth ales, there is plenty to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
Whether you are just starting out or slowly expanding your taste, choosing balanced and well-crafted beers makes the experience far more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Craft beer does not have to be intimidating. The best way to begin is with beers that are easy to drink, flavourful without being overpowering, and enjoyable in everyday moments.
As your tastes evolve, you can branch out and explore new styles at your own pace. Until then, start simple, drink what you enjoy, and have fun discovering what craft beer has to offer.
