This Beer Is Basically a Cocktail

A Beer That Pushes the Limits

An iconic American brewer is once again redefining what qualifies as beer — and this time, the result is so potent it’s illegal in parts of the country. Samuel Adams has released Utopias 2025, a barrel-aged “extreme beer” with a staggering 30% alcohol by volume, placing it closer to hard liquor than a traditional brew.

Why It’s Banned in 15 States

Because of its unusually high alcohol content, Utopias 2025 is prohibited in 15 states, including Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and West Virginia. Many of those states have alcohol regulations that cap beer well below the strength of spirits, automatically pushing Utopias into an illegal category despite its brewing process.

More Like a Spirit Than a Beer

Samuel Adams describes Utopias 2025 as ruby-black, non-carbonated, and designed to be sipped rather than poured by the pint. The beer comes in a resealable ceramic bottle and does not require refrigeration. Tasting notes include caramel, oak, dried fruit, subtle smoke, and citrus — flavors more commonly associated with barrel-aged whiskeys or liqueurs.

A Pricey, Collectible Pour

Each 24.5-ounce bottle carries a suggested retail price of $240, though secondary-market prices have climbed higher since its October release. With a recommended serving size of just one to two ounces, each bottle yields between 12 and 24 pours, reinforcing its status as a specialty, collectible item rather than a casual drink.

Craft Without Compromise

Jim Koch, founder and brewer of Samuel Adams, called Utopias 2025 a milestone — not because of the alcohol percentage alone, but because it reflects decades of experimentation and innovation. Experts caution, however, that consumers should treat it with the same respect as hard liquor, as even small pours can lead to rapid intoxication if underestimated.