There are few things we love more than Colorado’s extensive selection of craft beer. But each year the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) gives us an opportunity to taste the latest from the beer world beyond the boundaries of the Centennial State. To find out where to begin at this year’s festival we asked Chad Yakobson, owner and brewer of Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project and a GABF judge. His top five picks for must-visit breweries from outside Colorado:

Melvin Brewing, Jackson, Wyoming

Yakobson says: “Some of the best IPAs the United States has to offer.”

Bell’s Brewing, Kalamazoo, Michigan

“Try the Two Hearted, an American-style IPA.”

Chuckanut Brewing, Bellingham, Washington

“Owners Will and Mari Kemper have been making some of the best German-style beers. You will most certainly hear Chuckanut win some awards this year.”

Societe Brewing, San Diego

“This is my favorite brewery in San Diego. Everything from amazing IPAs to great barrel-aged sours. They are consistently some of the best beer I drink.”

Almanac Beer Co., San Francisco

“The farm-to-barrel Almanac Beer Co. is releasing exciting barrel-aged beers and are sure to have some lines for their great sours.”