For a memorable drinking lineup on gameday, make sure to include brews that are just as big on representing its home state as you are. When in doubt about which breweries to choose from, stick with what you know: the Southeastern Conference is the best. Besides having some of the most dominant athletic programs in the nation, the beer produced around here isn’t half bad either. Check out our picks of tried and true classics from breweries located around the Southeastern Conference.
Alabama
Hitchhiker IPA, Good People Brewing Company
A hop head’s dream, Hitchhiker delivers an unapologetic barrage of hops and citrus undertones all the way from Birmingham.
Louisiana
Purple Haze, Abita Brewing Company
This Louisiana classic is a great example of an American-style wheat beer with a refreshing mouthful of raspberry flavor and a hint of wheat — perfect for drinking all season long.
Florida
The Catherine Russian Imperial Stout series, Swamp Head Brewery
Gainesville born and bred, this brewery’s tap selection has us hooked year round. Choose one of its spot-on seasonal releases, like the bold and balanced Catherine’s Inspiration Russian Imperial Stout, to please the stout-lovers in your tailgate group.
Jai Alai IPA, Cigar City Brewing
Full of fruity, aromatic hops, this Tampa brew is great for anyone who likes a balance of bitterness and caramel malt that reminds them of fresh, Florida citrus.
Georgia
Sch’Wheat, Sweetwater Brewing Company
From the Atlanta brewery that helped spearhead craft beer in the south, a pale wheat ale with a crisp, slightly hoppy taste that makes for a great session beer.
Rye Pale Ale, Terrapin Beer Company
Athens knows that no tailgate is complete without a beer that goes down quick and easy, so pick up a case of this classic American style that offers a twist of subtle rye.
Tennessee
A rich, malty beer that delivers a smoke bomb of flavor, Sue gets its mellow smoky undertones from barley malts smoked with cherry wood.
Texas
HefeWeizen, Live Oak Brewing Company
Refreshing and light, there’s nothing watered down about this brew. Modeled after classic wheat beers of Bavaria, its fermented with an authentic Weizenbier yeast strain for a balanced flavor filled with notes of clove, vanilla and banana. If you can get your hands on some, it’s an instant favorite.
South Carolina
Rye Knot Brown Ale, COAST Brewing Company
For fans of rye beers, COAST delivers a chocolate-y rye malt perfect for sipping on a fall afternoon. Roasted coffee and a subtle caramel sweetness help round out this full-bodied Charleston native.
