Shunned by beer elites, but adored by the masses (and in turn, forced upon breweries), Fruit Ales have a checkered history of quality. In most fruit ales, added flavor comes in form of extracts or syrups leading to the dismay and disdain of some. However, some craft breweries have produced excellent and complex fruit ales by adding whole, crushed fruit to the mash during the brewing process. Berries are the most common fruit added to ales, but plum, apricot and even banana beer have found their way to the marketplace as well. In most fruit ales, one can expect a flavor that resembles that of the fruit added, hidden malt and low hop bitterness.

Our pick: Wachusett Blueberry Ale