The country known for Pinot Grigio and Super Tuscans has recently become a creative frontier for beer. Unbound by brewing traditions (unlike Germany and Belgium) and heavily influenced by the Slow Food movement, Italy is crafting food-friendly brews beloved by the beer intelligentsia, including Justin Philips, owner of the superb Beer Table bar in Brooklyn. Here, Philips shares his favorite birre.
Birra del Borgo Genziana, $9 for 12.7 ounces
"Brewed just outside of Rome, this crisp, herbal ale is made with gentian root, imparting a floral bitterness."
Piccolo Birrificio Sesonette, $9 for 11.2 ounces
"Nearly a beer-wine hybrid, this unique pale and spicy beer is matured in wine barrels."
Birrificio del Ducato Via Emilia, $10 for 11.2 ounces
"A magnificent interpretation of pilsner--zippy, frothy, and super-refreshing."
Birreria Baladin Wayan, $14 for 25.4 ounces
"Reminiscent of a Belgian saison, Wayan is brewed with an array of spices and malts; it's citrusy and crisp."
Birrificio Italiano La Fleurette, $15 for 25.4 ounces
"Brewed with roses, violets, honey, elderberries, and black pepper, the result is a bold low-alcohol quencher."