What LA County Beers Will I Like if I Only Drink Lagers?
Updated: 2 hours ago
If you exclusively drink Lagers and want to explore Los Angeles craft beer, start with styles that share familiar traits. Look for a crisp finish, sweet malt backbone, or corn additions. You can easily branch out into blondes, pilsners, or a mild hoppy lager while staying in your comfort zone.
Stick to cold-fermented styles for a clean, familiar finish.
Try a classic local pilsner for that traditional crisp bite.
Explore a hoppy lager to introduce new flavor profiles gently.
Keep it easy with a lower ABV option perfect for sunny afternoons.
Being a creature of habit is completely fine. When you know exactly what you like in a glass, shopping becomes simple. However, the Los Angeles craft beer scene is massive. If you normally grab a mass-market six-pack, stepping into a local brewery taproom might feel a little overwhelming. You might see chalkboards full of hazy IPAs, thick stouts, and fruity sours. But the transition to local independent beer is incredibly simple. You do not have to jump straight into heavy or bitter styles to enjoy what your city has to offer. You can find plenty of local options that deliver exactly the flavor profile you already love, just with fresher ingredients.
Why Lagers Rule the Los Angeles Scene
When the Southern California sun comes out, you want something exceptionally light. Lagers hit the spot because they ferment at very cold temperatures. This specific process creates a remarkably clean profile. The yeast stays out of the way, allowing the base ingredients to shine through. You get a straightforward, uncomplicated malt flavor, often complemented by a very subtle floral hop presence.
Many local spots make excellent versions using traditional adjuncts like corn or rice. These ingredients help create an even lighter body and a highly carbonated finish. If you love a classic Mexican lager, you are in luck. Plenty of LA spots craft incredible homages to this beloved style. They pair perfectly with a slice of lime and some street tacos from your favorite neighborhood vendor.
The perfect beach beer
Nothing beats a beach beer on a warm Saturday in Santa Monica or Malibu. When you pack your cooler for a day by the water, you need a beverage that stays enjoyable from the very first sip to the last drop. You want something that quenches your thirst without weighing you down. Look for a lower ABV option when you plan to be out in the sun. This keeps things manageable if you are spending the whole afternoon outside with friends. A solid local pilsner fits this role beautifully. It is clean, slightly earthy, and incredibly easy to drink.
Stepping up to a hoppy lager
Maybe you want just a bit more flavor without losing the clean, snappy finish you expect. A hoppy lager is your absolute best next step. Los Angeles brewers often take a traditional pale base and add modern West Coast hops late in the process. The result gives you a bright citrus or tropical aroma. However, because it still uses bottom-fermenting yeast, it never gets too heavy or overly bitter on the palate. You get the best of both worlds in a single glass. It is an excellent game day beer when you want something interesting but not distracting.
Expanding Your Fridge Horizons
Your journey does not have to stop at traditional bottom-fermented options. The world of lighter craft beer is vast and welcoming. Blonde ales and kolsch-style beers offer a drinking experience very similar to your favorite macro brands. They use ale yeast but often ferment at much cooler temperatures to mimic that pristine finish. They are a staple at any weekend barbecue and make a fantastic patio beer for those long summer evenings in the San Fernando Valley.
Here are some options to try: Hermosa and Common Space each make a Mexican Lager; Sirena and Con Amor, respectively. 8one8 makes an American Pilsner; Absolution brews a California Common, and Malibu makes Hatch, a chili pepper beer!
Finding that sweet, crisp, refreshing profile
You probably appreciate a beverage that is sweet, crisp, and refreshing all at once. Craft maltsters provide incredible grains that give local beers a fresh biscuit or cracker taste. Next time you place an order or visit a local brewery, ask for their lightest blonde, a traditional helles, or a simple golden ale. You will recognize the familiar foundation immediately. These styles are designed to be approachable. For more details on traditional flavor profiles, you can read up on the official style guidelines at the Brewers Association (brewersassociation.org).
As you explore these new options, remember that all alcohol delivery requires you to be 21 or older. Drivers will check your ID at the door, so please have it ready and always enjoy responsibly. We want your weekend to be safe and fun. Craft beer is best enjoyed when you plan. The California Craft Brewers Association (californiacraftbeer.com) also champions safe, responsible enjoyment across the state, ensuring the industry remains vibrant and community-focused.
FAQ: Los Angeles craft beer questions
What is the best way to keep my beer fresh?
Keep your cans cold right away. Heat and sunlight ruin delicate flavor profiles incredibly fast.
Do you need to be home for delivery?
Yes, someone must be present to accept the order. A valid 21+ ID is strictly required by law for all alcohol drops.
What makes a beer style crisp?
It usually comes down to cold fermentation temperatures and specific base grains. This process removes heavy, fruity, or lingering flavors.
Are lighter beers always lower in alcohol?
Usually, but not always. Check the label on the can to be sure the alcohol by volume fits your plans.
