The number of craft beer makers in America is growing at record speed.
More than 400 new craft breweries opened their doors in 2012, according to the Brewer's Association.
Craft brewers still make up only 6.5% of the total beer market. But enthusiasts are confident that number will continue to grow.
This week, the Brewers Association released its list of the top craft breweries in 2012, based on sales volume. We put together some information on the top 20, which beer lovers should keep on their radar.
20. Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
Location: Paso Robles, Calif.
About: The brewery was founded in 1996 by a pair of brothers-in-law. It's now a four-time World Beer Cup champion.
Beer buzz: Firestone Walker's Parabola Imperial Stout is coming out this month. The beer is a doozy at 13 percent alcohol by volume and is noted for its "bold bourbon, espresso and tobacco aromas."
19. Great Lakes Brewing Company
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
About: The brewery was founded in 1998 by Daniel and Patrick Conway. It jumped from producing 1,000 barrels of beer its first year to 125,000 barrels annually today.
Beer buzz: The company's Burning River Pale Ale has won a gold medal at the World Beer Championships eight times. The name hails from the infamous 1969 burning of the Cuyahoga River.
18. Long Trail Brewing Co.
Location: Bridgewater Corners, Vt.
About: The brewery got its start in 1989 in the basement of a woolen mill. It's focused on environmentalism and gives its used grain and hops as a feed supplement to local dairy cows.
Beer buzz: The company has an interesting story behind its 5.5 percent Pumpkin Pale Ale: "During colonial times malted barley would be in short supply so the colonial brewers would use a wide assortment of whatever organic ingredient was handy. Pumpkin was in abundance so it was one of the most common of the random ingredients."
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