This Sam Adams beer is so strong that it’s illegal in 15 states



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This year’s edition of Utopias is brewed at a 30% ABV, which is considered a “milestone” for this potent brew.

Sam Adams brewed a 30% ABV beer, and it’s illegal to buy in some states. Courtesy of Sam Adams

Sam Adams just made a beer so strong, you may not even be able to legally drink it in some states. 

The rollout of this year’s Utopias, a barrel-aged “extreme” beer from the Boston-based beer company, has a whopping 30% ABV (alcohol by volume).

“Defying convention with a 30% ABV, Utopias 2025 is one of the strongest beers ever brewed,” Boston Beer Company, which owns Sam Adams, said in a press release.

Jim Koch, founder and brewer of Samuel Adams, called the 14th edition of Utopias a “milestone.” Utopias in the past have landed at 24% to 28% ABV, still a far cry from a typical Sam Adams beer with an ABV of around 5%. 

This potent brew drinks more like a “fine spirit,” utilizing vintages aged up to 30 years and liquids such as Irish Whiskey, Amarone, White Port barrels, Ruby Port, Carcavelos, Cognac, and Scotch casks. 

But because of its high-alcohol content, you won’t find the $240 bottle (that’s not a typo) in 15 states, including New England’s Vermont and New Hampshire. Drive across the border to Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island, or Connecticut, and you’ll find the 24.5-ounce, collectible and ceramic bottles at select specialty liquor stores. 

For those willing to try the “extreme” beer, Sam Adams recommends drinking this brew in a Cognac glass at room temperature, in one-ounce pours, and to never refrigerate Utopias. Pair it with clam chowder, fish and chips, or a pineapple upside down cake, according to the brewery’s website.

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Katelyn Umholtz

Food and Restaurant Reporter

Katelyn Umholtz covers food and restaurants for Boston.com. Katelyn is also the author of The Dish, a weekly food newsletter.



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