Samuel Adams Releases 30% ABV Utopias Beer Banned in 15 States

Samuel Adams and Boston Beer Company have released the 14th vintage of their Utopias beer, achieving a historic milestone of 30% alcohol by volume (ABV) after nearly 30 years of experimentation. This barrel-aged extreme beer, first introduced in 2001 with ABVs ranging from 24 to 28 percent, blends barrel-aged beers up to 30 years old and finishes in various casks, resulting in a rich, spirit-like flavor profile meant to be sipped in small pours. The 30% ABV strength renders Utopias illegal to sell in 15 states, including New Hampshire and Vermont, due to state-specific ABV thresholds. Each limited-edition 24.5-ounce ceramic bottle is individually numbered and retails for $240, reflecting its unique craftsmanship and complexity akin to fine spirits. Samuel Adams founder Jim Koch emphasized that reaching 30% ABV symbolizes the relentless pursuit of craft brewing innovation rather than the number itself. Utopias is available in 35 states at select retailers, continuing its legacy as a boundary-pushing specialty beer that appeals to both beer enthusiasts and spirits drinkers.