Beyond Green Beer: Irish Beer Styles to Try This St. Patrick's Day

When St. Patrick's Day rolls around, you'll spot those bright green pints in practically every New York bar. Green beer is a fun tradition, but if you want to elevate your St. Patty's Day drinking experience this holiday, there is a whole world of authentic Irish beer waiting to be found.

Irish brewing goes way beyond food coloring, and New York's craft beer scene has embraced these traditional styles with open arms. Here's your guide to skipping the green stuff and finding something with real Irish brewing credibility.

Beer Styles to Try this St. Patty's Day

1. Dry Irish Stout

Guinness can be considered one of the world's most famous beers, and for good reason. Dry Irish Stouts look heavy but are surprisingly light. The magic is in the balance – roasted barley gives those coffee and chocolate notes, while the dry finish keeps you coming back for another sip.

Several New York breweries make excellent versions, like Beer Tree's Dry Irish Goodbye. Perfect alongside traditional Irish stew or just enjoyed on its own.

2. Irish Red Ale

Irish Red Ales don't get enough credit for their subtle caramel sweetness, a touch of toasted grain, and just enough hops to keep things interesting. They're the ultimate crowd-pleasers – flavorful without being overwhelming.

Check out Willow Rock's Galway or Talking Cursive's Parade Day Red Ale. These pair beautifully with both Irish and American pub grub.

3. Irish Cream Stout

Irish Cream Stouts bring a velvety, dessert-like twist to the traditional dry stout. While there’s no actual cream in the brew, these stouts often incorporate lactose (milk sugar) to create a rich, silky mouthfeel with hints of chocolate, coffee, and caramel.

If you love the bold character of a stout but want something more decadent, try an Irish Cream Stout, like the one from Southern Tier Brewing Co.

And if you're really craving green beer...

Try a Green Fruited Sour 

If you're dead-set on something green but still want actual flavor, several New York breweries produce sour ales with kiwi, lime, or green apple that deliver natural green hues without the food coloring.

Bullfinch Brewing's Gelatinous Cube is a great option.

Where To Find These Beers

For the freshest options, hit brewery taprooms directly. Many run special Irish-themed releases throughout March, often paired with traditional food options.

So get out there and give yourself an upgrade from artificially green beer this St. Patrick's Day! Whether you go for a traditional stout's roasty richness, a red ale's caramel smoothness, or a cream stouts's dessert-like taste, you'll be celebrating with something that honors Irish brewing traditions. Sláinte! 🍻