New to our Beer department? Here, you can explore, discover and shop a selection that’s unlike any other retailer. Whether it’s a new local beer, hard-to-find brew or trusted favorite, we have something for everyone. As Global Senior Category Merchant for Beer and Spirits at Whole Foods Market, I've tasted a lot of different types of beers — and it's safe to say that our stores carry an unrivaled selection. Check out these ten beer styles, plus alcoholic seltzer and cider, that you can usually find in our Beer department. Need help? Just ask one of our 500+ Certified Beer Servers (including myself) in our stores.
India Pale Ale (IPA)
This is the most popular style of beer sold at Whole Foods Market — and in the U.S. craft beer market. Expect a medium-to-strong hop flavor (pine, citrus and floral) and bitterness with a clean finish. Pair with heartier meals like cheeseburgers, carne asada tacos or creamy Indian curry.
Hazy IPA (New England—Style IPA)
The perfect IPA for non-IPA drinkers, hazy IPA’s seem to be everywhere. But they’re actually a relatively recent addition. The taste is fruity, fresh and smooth without losing its hoppiness. Pair with everything from pub grub to salads and seafood.
White Ale (Witbier)
This wheat-based style hails from Europe, but you can thank Blue Moon for its popularity in the U.S. Traditionally flavored with orange peel and coriander, this refreshing beer has a balanced, bright flavor. Pair with aromatic dishes like curries, stews and paella.
Saison
This European-style beer is elegant and complex — if you dislike hops and bitterness, you’ll like this style. Expect subtle sweetness and high carbonation with hints of honey, pepper and citrus. Pair with lighter fare like seafood, mussels or creamy cheeses like Brie.
Stouts
Stouts are the darkest beers you’ll find on our shelves — and the color actually comes from roasting the grains before brewing. Expect rich and roasty flavors with notes of chocolate and coffee. Pair with chocolate cake or raw oysters. You won’t be sorry.
Pilsner
Meet the perfect palate-cleanser beer. Crisp, clean and refreshing, this style is often considered the benchmark style of a quality brewery. The best versions are delicate and boast floral aromas. Pair with spicier foods, pizza or Thai food.
Bock
Bock beers are actually lagers, even though they’re darker and sweeter. From Maibock to Doppelbock to Eisbock, bock styles tend to be maltier with hints of caramel and toffee. Save for chillier weather and pair with baked, spiced apples.
Belgian-Style Blonde
Blonde ales, golden strong ales and tripels have similar qualities — if you like one, you’ll probably like the others! Crisp, well-balanced and a great go-to beer for any occasion, blonde ales can also be fruity and citrusy. Pair with seafood recipes.
Hard Cider
Ciders are actually more like wine, even though they’re in our Beer department. But instead of grapes as its base, cider is made with apples (and sometimes pears). Ciders also vary in sweetness — some are sweet while others are dry or brut. Many cideries also add fruit flavors like apricot or pineapple.
Hard Seltzer (Flavored Malt Beverage)
Hard seltzers have officially taken over. Think of them as a canned version of a vodka soda beverage. Simply combine lovely fruity flavors (like orange and blueberry) with carbonation and voilà! Pair with salty snacks like popcorn and lots of sunshine.
Must be 21+. Please drink responsibly.
