Indiana may be known for basketball, racing, and pork tenderloin sandwiches, but the Hoosier State also has a long and surprising history with beer. From classic lagers that fueled generations to craft breweries that have achieved international fame, Indiana has made its mark on the brewing world. Here’s a look at the most famous beers brewed in Indiana, past and present.
📜 The Early Years – Sterling Beer
Founded in 1863 in Evansville, Indiana, Sterling Beer quickly became a household name across southern Indiana and Kentucky. Known as the “Pride of Evansville,” it grew into one of the region’s largest breweries. For over a century, Sterling’s crisp lagers were staples at cookouts, taverns, and sporting events before the brewery finally closed in 1997. Even today, Sterling memorabilia and nostalgia remain strong among beer collectors and older Hoosiers.
🍺 Mid-1900s – Carling Black Label and Champale
In 1953, Carling built a massive brewery in Hammond, Indiana, which would become one of the largest beer plants in the Midwest. For decades, Carling Black Label, a smooth and affordable lager, rolled off the production lines here, supplying beer lovers across the region.
Another product from the Hammond brewery was Champale, marketed as the “Champagne of Bottled Beers.” With its sweet and sparkling style, it was something different at the time and became a recognizable brand throughout the Midwest.
🍻 Regional Favorites – Falls City and the Sterling Legacy
Even as national brands grew, Indiana drinkers held onto regional staples. Falls City Beer, brewed just across the river in Louisville, was deeply tied to Indiana taverns and sports bars. And while Sterling officially closed in the 1990s, the brand saw brief revival attempts and remains a nostalgic symbol of Indiana’s beer heritage.
🍇 2000s – The Craft Beer Boom
Indiana joined the American craft beer revolution with breweries that quickly gained attention:
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Upland Brewing (Bloomington, founded 1998): Known for its wheat beers and award-winning sour ales, Upland became a cornerstone of Indiana craft beer.
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Three Floyds Brewing (Munster, founded 1996): Achieved international fame with Dark Lord, a massive Russian Imperial Stout released only on “Dark Lord Day,” an annual beer festival that draws fans from around the world.
🌟 Today – Indiana’s Beer Leaders
The modern Hoosier beer scene is thriving, led by craft breweries with statewide and national reach:
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Sun King Brewing (Indianapolis, founded 2009): The state’s largest craft brewery, Sun King is best known for Sunlight Cream Ale and Wee Mac Scottish Ale, both staples at ballgames, restaurants, and local bars.
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Other Rising Breweries: Taxman (Bargersville), Daredevil (Speedway), and Metazoa (Indianapolis) continue to grow Indiana’s brewing reputation with innovative styles and strong community roots.
🏆 Top 5 Famous Indiana Beers
For a quick look, here are the beers that defined Indiana’s brewing history:
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Sterling Beer (Evansville, 1863–1997) – A southern Indiana classic and regional powerhouse.
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Carling Black Label (Hammond, 1953–1980s) – Brewed in one of the Midwest’s largest beer plants.
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Champale (Hammond, mid-1900s) – Marketed as the “Champagne of Bottled Beers.”
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Three Floyds Dark Lord (Munster, 2000s–today) – Internationally famous cult stout.
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Sun King Sunlight Cream Ale (Indianapolis, today) – A modern staple found across Indiana.
🍻 Conclusion: A Legacy That Spans Generations
From the classic lagers of Sterling Beer and the Hammond-brewed Carling Black Label to the international acclaim of Three Floyds and the statewide dominance of Sun King, Indiana’s beer story blends nostalgia with innovation. Whether you’re sipping a retro brew in a vintage glass or enjoying the latest hazy IPA, Indiana’s brewing heritage is alive and well.
Go have a cold one today! BJ
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