Untappd’s Top Beers of 2025: Cheers to the Cream of the Craft Beer Crop
Craft Beer Revolution and the Rise of Untappd
Back in 2010, Greg Avola embarked on an exciting journey to create a social network tailor-made for craft beer enthusiasts. Untappd was born from this vision, meshing the growing love for craft beer with the burgeoning popularity of smartphone apps. While pop culture phenomena like “Like a G6” and “MasterChef” dominated screens, Untappd tapped into the bubbling craft beer movement.
Fast forward to today, Untappd has evolved into the world’s largest social platform dedicated solely to craft beer, with a community that boasts 11 billion registered members. As craft beer continues its upward trajectory, Untappd remains a barometer for the industry, showcasing beers that achieve a coveted 5.0 rating. Here’s a glimpse into the top-rated beers of 2025 that are resonating with Untappd users.
1. Pliny the Elder – Russian River Brewing Company
Number of 5-Star Check-Ins: 9,677
Known as the first-ever double IPA in the U.S., Pliny the Elder from Russian River Brewing Company continues to reign supreme. With its robust blend of Amarillo, Centennial, CTZ, and Simcoe hops, this iconic double IPA balances pine, citrus, and floral aromas with a well-rounded bitterness. As its popularity surges, Pliny the Elder sets the gold standard for double IPAs, celebrated for its limited availability and unrivaled flavor.
This legendary brew pays homage to Pliny the Elder, a first-century naturalist who coined the name for hops. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of craft beer, Pliny the Elder is a must-try for anyone visiting their taproom in California.
2. Heady Topper – The Alchemist
Number of 5-Star Check-Ins: 5,841
Hailing from Waterbury, VT, The Alchemist’s Heady Topper proudly secures its place as a quintessential craft beer favorite. This double IPA, known for its can instructions to sip directly from the aluminum, captures hop lovers’ hearts with its dank, unfiltered experience. Heady Topper remains an integral piece of The Alchemist’s legacy, marking a turning point in modern craft brewing lore.
Initially, available primarily at The Alchemist’s brewpub, this beer’s acclaim soared following the strategic decision to can it. Today, it enjoys broader distribution, yet retains its aura of exclusivity. Heady Topper is truly a beer that any brewery tourist must experience on a Vermont beer pilgrimage.
3. Traditional Lager – Yuengling Brewery
Number of 5-Star Check-Ins: 5,773
Yuengling Lager, an amber lager brewed by America’s oldest brewery in Pottsville, PA, has seen over 5.7k five-star check-ins. Its balanced blend of caramel malt and Cluster and Cascade hops affords drinkers an experience steeped in history. The recipe resurrected in 1987 carries a legacy of authenticity that resonates with those who appreciate beers that taste like, well, beer.
For many, Yuengling represents a taste of American brewing history, making it a staple beer choice for both locals and visitors exploring the rich tapestry of Pennsylvania’s brewing heritage.
4. Zombie Dust – 3 Floyds Brewing
Number of 5-Star Check-Ins: 3,872
3 Floyds Brewing’s Zombie Dust, an American Pale Ale brewed with Citra hops, continues to captivate beer enthusiasts. Launched in 2010, this pioneering Citra showcase delivers a citrus-loaded punch without overwhelming the palate. Zombie Dust is a testament to 3 Floyds’ craftsmanship, featuring prominent notes of orange and tangerine.
While its 5-star check-ins have dipped, the beer’s enduring appeal underscores its status as a classic among craft beer fans. It’s a delightful stop for visitors to the 3 Floyds taproom in Munster, Indiana, offering a taste of Midwestern craft beer innovation.
5. Two Hearted Ale – Bell’s Brewery
Number of 5-Star Check-Ins: 3,281
Bell’s Brewery’s Two Hearted Ale, an American IPA brewed with 100% Centennial hops, remains a fan-favorite. Consistently named “Best Beer in America,” this Michigan-brewed masterpiece boasts a harmonious blend of grapefruit, pine, and floral notes. Crafted with care, Two Hearted Ale has earned its place as a cornerstone of American craft IPA culture.
Revered for its versatility and balanced profile, it’s a shining example of the innovation that motivates beer tourists to venture to Bell’s in Kalamazoo.
6. Trappist Westvleteren 12 – Brouwerij De Sint-Sixtusabdij van Westvleteren
Number of 5-Star Check-Ins: 3,135
Trappist Westvleteren 12, a Belgian quadrupel renowned for its scarcity, maintains a mystique cultivated by limited production. Brewed by Trappist monks in Vleteren, Belgium, the beer’s reputation escalated due to its unparalleled complexity and flavor. It features indulgent notes of chocolate cherry, distinctively smooth at 10.2% ABV.
This legendary brew is often sought after at international beer events, adding a dash of allure to any beer adventurer’s bucket list.
7. Duvel – Duvel Moortgat
Number of 5-Star Check-Ins: 2,681
As a Belgian Strong Golden Ale, Duvel showcases the precision of Duvel Moortgat Brewery. From its elegant hops to meticulous brewing processes, Duvel stands as a testament to Belgian brewing mastery that resonates throughout the craft beer community.
Its defined character and timeless appeal draw aficionados from far and wide, making it a prized experience at any Belgian craft beer festival.
8. Lagerbier Hell – Augustiner-Bräu München
Number of 5-Star Check-Ins: 2,601
Munich’s Augustiner-Bräu offers Lagerbier Hell, a helles lager capturing the quintessential Bavarian brewing tradition. Characterized by a clean, malty freshness, it continues to garner admiration from the global beer community.
Recognized for its distinction among lagers, Lagerbier Hell is a delightful draw for those exploring Munich’s vibrant beer scene.
9. Focal Banger – The Alchemist
Number of 5-Star Check-Ins: 2,459
The Alchemist’s Focal Banger earns its respect alongside its renowned counterpart, Heady Topper. This American IPA brims with Citra and Mosaic hop aromas, providing a striking balance of bitterness and tropical notes. Focal Banger exemplifies Vermont’s dynamic craft beer culture, intriguing those eager to explore distinctive hop-forward creations.
Best enjoyed at The Alchemist’s taproom, Focal Banger stands as a tribute to the evolving artistry within American craft IPA traditions.
10. Julius – Tree House Brewing Company
Number of 5-Star Check-Ins: 2,171
Julius from Tree House Brewing makes its debut on this list, synonymous with American IPA excellence. Packed with tropical hops and a creamy mouthfeel, Julius personifies the innovation that defines New England’s craft beer landscape.
Known for its joyous drinkability, Julius becomes a beacon for those embarking on brewery tours through Massachusetts, showcasing the flavorful symphony of a true New England IPA.
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