Colorado beer fans have yet one more thing to be excited about: Crooked Stave Artisans (CSA), the distribution arm of Denver’s Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project, has joined with Texas-based Sublime Imports to bring little-known international beers to the state. CSA focuses on what’s happening in the craft beer community outside of the United States. “What we are experiencing in Colorado…concerning the growth of microbreweries is also happening on a global level,” Crooked Stave’s Chad Yakobson says. And how better, he reasons, to understand the world market than to quaff it. Here’s a taste:

Malka Stout

Malka Brewery, Israel

5280 April 2015
More From The Issue

A highly intricate example of a stout, this brew was inspired by a very old English recipe and is nuanced and rounded on the palate. The hop flavors are well-integrated with the subtle earthiness from the malt. This gives way to a spice note that rounds out each sip with great complexity. $3–$4* (11.2 ounces)

Mateo 21

Mateo & Bernabé, Spain

Hailing from Rioja’s wine country, Mateo 21 pays tribute to the San Mateo fiesta that celebrates the beginning of the wine harvest on the 21st of each September. Light carbonation is gentle on the palate; aromas of cracked pepper and baked bread fill the senses and bring to mind a classic Belgian wheat ale. $8–$9* (16.9 ounces)

Er Boqueron

Cervesa Artesanal de Xativa, Spain

This light offering is brewed with Mediterranean salt water, which adds a dynamic edge of freshness. The salt is expressive on the aroma and gives one the impression of fresh sea air. A lovely lemon and lime citrus flavor makes for one highly drinkable and enticingly delicious beverage. $3.99* (11.2 ounces)

  • Look for these beers—and other CSA imports—at World of Beer in Glendale, Fruition Restaurant, Backcountry Pizza and Tap House in Boulder, Mile High Wine and Spirits in Belmar, Mr. B’s across from Coors Field, Lukas Liquors in Lone Tree, and Grapevine Wine and Liquors in southeast Denver.