Looking for the best craft beer store in Baton Rouge? Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or just starting your craft beer exploration, this guide will help you understand what craft beer is, explore great selections, and make Martin’s your top choice for craft beer shopping.

Did you know that in the U.S., craft beer isn’t defined by its taste, aroma, or even those quirky, eye-catching labels? Nope, it’s all about how much is brewed each year.

According to The Brewers Association, a craft brewer is:

• Small: Produces less than 6 million barrels per year.

• Independent: Less than 25% owned by a non-craft alcohol company.

Surprising, right? But here’s where it gets interesting — different countries have their unique take on what makes a beer “craft.” For now, though, let’s keep it simple and stick with the American definition.

When people think of craft beer, certain qualities naturally come to mind.

Typically, craft beer is known for:

• Creativity and innovation
• Unique ingredients
• Strong connection to the local community

When large corporations started marketing “craft-like” beers, the Brewers Association (BA) stepped in with the 2012 “Craft vs. Crafty” statement to protect independent brewers and help beer lovers spot the difference.

By creating and updating the official craft brewer definition, the BA ensures craft beer stays true to its roots of independence and innovation.

The Independent Craft Brewer Seal helps beer lovers identify authentic craft breweries. This seal demonstrates that the brewery meets the craft beer definition established by the Brewers Association and has applied for the official seal. When you shop at Martin’s, you’ll find cans and bottles carrying this seal, so you always know you’re supporting small, independent brewers.

Craft beer is more than just a drink — it’s an experience. Here’s why beer lovers like you should explore craft options:

• Rich Variety: From IPAs and porters to lagers and sours, craft beers offer endless styles to explore.

• Support Local: Many craft breweries are deeply rooted in their communities, giving back through philanthropy and partnerships. You can often see local craft breweries sponsoring local events and fundraisers.

• Freshness: Small-batch brewing ensures you’re getting fresher beer than mass-produced options

• Flavor Innovation: Forget boring — you’ll find unique flavors like chocolate stout, honey kölsch, or mango-infused IPAs.

The U.S. is home to over 7,000 craft breweries offering incredible beers. Some standouts you can find at Martin’s include:

• Oskar Blues Dale’s Pale Ale: This pale ale is perfect for any occasion with its crisp, hoppy flavor and well-balanced notes. Shop Dale’s Pale Ale here.

• Rogue Honey Kölsch: An ode to bees with just a touch of honey sweetness, it’s a refreshing pick for lighter beer moments. Shop Rogue Honey Kölsch here.

• Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA: This hazy IPA is aggressively dry-hopped with juicy hops and a silky malt body for ultimate flavor. Shop Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing here.

• Parish Brewing Dr. Juice IPA (Louisiana Local!): Experience bold, citrusy hops brewed right here in Louisiana. Shop Parish Brewing Dr. Juice here.

Craft breweries often engage in local philanthropy. For example, Chandeleur Island Brewing Company partnered with Mississippi State University’s Marine Fisheries Ecology Program to create a beer supporting great hammerhead shark tracking efforts.

They also collaborated with the Mississippi Aquarium on a beer line called Consume for Conservation, with a portion of proceeds going toward the aquarium’s conservation initiatives.

Shopping for craft beer at the store can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. At Martin’s, we make it easy:

• Visit Us in Baton Rouge: Browse a wide selection of craft beers, including local Louisiana favorites and highly rated national brands.

• Look for Tasting Notes: Each beer comes with helpful tasting notes to guide your choices.

Wondering where to buy craft beer online? While Louisiana law prohibits online beer purchases, Martin’s partners with delivery services to get your craft beer to you quickly and easily.

Dive into Baton Rouge’s craft beer scene by stopping by Martin’s or browsing our carefully curated selection online. Whether you’re picking up a six-pack of Parish Brewing Gentilly Cake Stout or Louisiana’s own Urban South Paradise Park Lager, we’ll make sure your craft beer adventure is top-tier.

Shop Now at Martin’s for a taste of something great!