Tasty to-go options for your holiday beer run

Image credits: Brewers Association, HopFusion Ale Works, Peticolas Brewing Co., Division Brewing, Brutal Beerworks.

Given the current state of affairs due to Covid-19, the 2020 edition of National Independent Beer Run Day couldn't be happening at a more appropriate time. Set for July 3, National Independent Beer Run Day was created by the Brewers Association to encourage consumers to purchase craft beers produced by small and independent brewers ahead of their Independence Day celebrations.

In North Texas alone, products from over 80 local and independent brewing operations are sold at bars and breweries across the area. Many outlets are temporarily closed under orders of the state, meaning beer to-go is the only way to go for these businesses literally fighting to stay afloat.

With that in mind, I've compiled a short list of favorites I've enjoyed over the last few months, each of which was purchased during a local brewery visit for beer to-go. All are still available, should you plan on making a pre-Independence Day beer run for celebratory supplies.


Brutal Beerworks - Hop Drop (New England IPA, 8.0% ABV)

• A single hop hazy IPA brewed with only Mosaic hops, Hop Drop features a full spectrum of fruit flavors, with elements of berry, citrus, stone and tropical fruit.

• Available in single 16-ounce cans.

Division Brewing - Macaroon Morning (Coconut Porter, 6.8% ABV)

• Inspired by a chocolate coconut candy, this is a case where the added flavors actually add to the base beer, as opposed to overpowering it. The balanced interplay of the coconut and underlying porter works to create a coconut macaroon in a can.

• Available in four-packs of 16-ounce cans.

HopFusion Ale Works - Port Wine Barrel-Aged Fur Slipper (Imperial Milk Stout, 10% ABV)

• I've said it before, but for me bourbon barrel beers have become a bit ubiquitous, so finding this available curbside was a treat. As for my overall impression, this slipper is a sipper with ample strength and a noticeable port presence.
• Available in single 16-ounce cans.

Peticolas Brewing Co. - The Duke (Barley Wine, 12.0% ABV)

• The Duke isn't new, but the onset of Covid-19 was a catalyst for putting it in cans. It's fruity and boozy, thanks to a balanced mix of of alcohol and esters, but also entirely too easy to drink considering the ABV of 12%. Plus, it's hard to beat the availability of a barley wine on a daily basis.
• Available in four-packs of 12-ounce cans.