Some of the most interesting beers are the ones that do not fit easily into a single category.
The world of craft beer allows brewers to experiment with:
- unusual ingredients
- different fermentation techniques
- ageing methods
- stronger alcohol levels
- historic beer traditions
The result is a constantly evolving selection of Rare Beer Ireland customers can explore, including forgotten classic styles, modern experiments and small-batch releases.
For beer lovers who enjoy discovery, these styles offer the chance to experience something different from everyday beer categories.
Traditional Beer Styles Worth Exploring
Barleywine Beer
Barleywine is one of the richest and strongest traditional ale styles.
Despite the name, Barleywine is a beer rather than a wine, known for:
- high alcohol strength
- rich malt character
- dried fruit flavours
- warming finishes
Often enjoyed slowly like a fine spirit, Barleywine is a favourite among beer enthusiasts looking for depth, complexity and something truly distinctive.
ESB Beer (Extra Special Bitter)
ESB Beer is a classic English style that balances malt character with gentle bitterness.
Typically featuring:
- copper colour
- caramel malt flavours
- balanced bitterness
- smooth drinking character
ESB represents a traditional approach to brewing where balance and drinkability are just as important as intensity.
Dark Mild
Dark Mild is a historic British beer style that offers plenty of flavour despite usually being lower in alcohol.
Common characteristics include:
- smooth malt flavours
- chocolate notes
- caramel sweetness
- gentle bitterness
This style is a great example of how interesting beers do not always need to be strong or heavily flavoured.
Modern & Experimental Craft Beer
Modern breweries continue to push the boundaries of traditional beer styles.
This category can include:
- hybrid beer styles
- experimental ales
- collaboration beers
- barrel-aged releases
- unusual seasonal creations
Independent breweries are constantly exploring new ideas, combining different brewing techniques and ingredients to create beers that challenge expectations.
For customers who enjoy discovering new flavours, these releases represent some of the most exciting areas of craft beer.
Seasonal & Limited Release Beers
One of the biggest attractions of craft brewing is the availability of Limited Edition Beer and seasonal releases.
Many independent breweries produce small-batch beers that are only available for a short time.
These can include:
- Christmas beers
- anniversary releases
- brewery collaborations
- festival beers
- seasonal craft beers
Because these beers are often produced in limited quantities, they offer customers the opportunity to discover something genuinely special.
Explore the latest additions through our New Craft Beer Arrivals section.
Strong & Specialty Beers
Some beer lovers enjoy exploring styles that offer more intensity and complexity.
Strong Beer styles often showcase:
- richer malt flavours
- higher alcohol levels
- longer ageing
- deeper flavour development
Examples include:
- Barleywine
- strong ales
- imperial-style beers
- barrel-aged releases
These beers are often ideal for slow enjoyment and are popular among experienced craft beer drinkers.
How To Choose An Unusual Beer
Choosing something outside the standard beer categories can feel challenging, so here are some simple starting points.
If You Like IPA
Try:
- experimental pale ales
- hybrid hop-forward beers
- unusual seasonal releases
These offer familiar hop character while introducing something new.
If You Like Stout
Try:
- Dark Mild
- strong ales
- barrel-aged beers
These styles can offer rich malt flavours without always having the roasted character of stout.
If You Like Belgian Beer
Try:
- farmhouse styles
- speciality ales
- traditional European-inspired beers
These often share the same focus on fermentation character and complexity.
Why Explore Other Beer Styles?
The appeal of this category is discovery.
Exploring unusual beer styles allows customers to:
- discover new breweries
- try limited releases
- experience forgotten traditional styles
- find beers outside mainstream categories
- expand their understanding of craft brewing
For many beer enthusiasts, the most memorable beers are often the unexpected ones.
The Other Beer Styles category gives customers a place to explore beyond IPA, Lager and Stout.
Discover More Craft Beer Categories
Continue exploring craft beer styles at TheCru.ie:
You can also discover ongoing beer discoveries through our Craft Beer Subscription and find unique presents through our Beer Gifts collection.
Other Beer Styles FAQs
What are other beer styles?
Other beer styles include beers that sit outside the main categories such as IPA, Lager, Stout, Belgian and Sour, including traditional, experimental and seasonal releases.
What is the rarest type of beer?
Rare beers are often limited releases, small-batch creations or traditionally produced styles with restricted availability.
What is a Barleywine beer?
Barleywine is a strong ale style known for rich malt character, dried fruit flavours and warming alcohol.
What is an ESB beer?
ESB stands for Extra Special Bitter, a traditional English style known for balance between malt sweetness and bitterness.
What are seasonal craft beers?
Seasonal craft beers are limited releases created for specific times of year, such as Christmas, festivals or brewery anniversaries.
Where can I buy unusual craft beer in Ireland?
TheCru.ie offers a selection of unique and specialist craft beers with delivery throughout Ireland.
Are limited edition beers available online?
Yes. Craft breweries regularly release limited and seasonal beers, with availability changing throughout the year.
What beer should I try if I want something different?
Explore styles such as Barleywine, ESB, Dark Mild, hybrid beers and seasonal releases for something outside traditional categories.