The craft beer landscape in recent years has been overwhelmingly dominated by hop-forward styles, particularly IPAs and their more intense variations. These brews, characterized by stronger, darker, and often hazy profiles, have captivated both breweries and beer drinkers. Even the latest trend in the industry, non-alcoholic (NA) beers, often showcases the versatility of hops. However, the dominance of hops in craft beer is beginning to wane, and a quieter revolution is underway: Idaho’s craft lagers are experiencing a surge in popularity.
Lagers, which typically undergo a slower, cooler fermentation process than ales, have long been recognized for their clean, crisp flavors. While lagers are the most consumed beer style globally, largely due to the influence of multinational brewing giants, craft brewers in the past distanced themselves from lagers in favor of more complex ales. These ales were often richer in flavor, thanks to the shorter fermentation time that allowed for more pronounced contributions from specialty malts, innovative hops, and unique yeasts. However, the narrative surrounding lagers is undergoing a change.
Chris Biddle, Beer and Wine Lead at North End Boise Co-op, explained that the increase in demand for craft lagers aligns with the aging demographic of craft beer drinkers. “As many of my customers have gotten older, their beer needs have changed,” he said. Locally, breweries are responding to this shift. Sockeye Brewing, for example, introduced two new lager varieties in 2024, complementing their popular Lonesome Larry American Lager. Woodland Empire Brewing Company reworked its Night Ride Dark Lager for 2025, joining the long-standing Old Boise Lager. Similarly, Mother Earth Brew Co. has added the All-Purpose Pilsner to its lineup for 2025, alongside its established Tierra Madre Mexican-style Lager. Chris Baker, Director of Brewing Operations at Mother Earth, noted that the market seems more receptive to craft lagers than in previous years.
Idaho has also made a mark on the global craft beer stage. Highlander Beer, based in Salmon, took home a Silver award in the 2025 World Beer Cup’s Experimental IPA category with their Infinite Glow Cold IPA. Head brewer Derek Brown, who has honed his craft at several award-winning breweries across the state, explained that Infinite Glow uses a lager yeast and flaked rice—a common adjunct in lagers that lightens the body—as a base for the hop-forward brew. Despite its IPA classification, the beer’s use of lager elements brings the conversation back to hops, underscoring the delicate balance brewers are achieving with this versatile beer style.
As the summer season approaches, craft lagers from local Idaho breweries are becoming increasingly available at grocery stores and specialty beer shops. Whether enjoying a lighter pilsner or a dark lager, beer enthusiasts are encouraged to explore this rising trend and support the state’s growing craft beer scene.
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