The topic of light vs. dark beer can be a spirited debate for craft beer aficionados. Some prefer the flavors and body of darker beers such as stouts and porters, while others are more inclined to lighter beers like a kolsch or lager.
Fortunately, the local breweries in Virginia’s Blue Ridge feature beers that cover the spectrum of flavors.
Do you prefer light beers, or are you part of the dark side? When you plan your Blue Ridge beercation, you can sample a variety of brews to determine which side of the Beer Wars you identify with.
Here are a few light vs. dark options to check out at the craft breweries in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
Chaos Mountain Brewing
Light: Shine Runner Pils
This Czech-style Pilsner began as a summer seasonal but quickly became a year-round option due to its popularity. It’s a light, crisp beer that’s refreshing and easy to drink and the name serves as a tribute to the moonshine makers and runners who helped earn Franklin County the reputation of being the “Moonshine Capital of the World.”
Dark: Agents of Chaos
For three straights years, Agents of Chaos has been an award-winner in the Belgian Dark Strong Ale category of the Virginia Craft Brewers Festival. It’s the flagship beer for Chaos Mountain Brewing and is full of complex flavors of dark fruits and caramel that serves as a nice after-dinner drink.
Parkway Brewing Company
Light: Bridge Builder Blonde
This Belgian-style ale goes down easy with its wheat flavor and 5.9% ABV. It offers hints of pear, clove and banana and serves as a great summer beer.
Dark: Raven’s Roost Baltic Porter
In addition to being an iconic spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Raven’s Roost is also the name of the signature porter from Parkway Brewing. It’s a powerful beer with a rich, robust aroma and strong flavor that includes notes of chocolate, caramel, and toffee.
Ready to check out more great beer? Here are a few other beer-related resources you might like: