Beer Around The NFL: Baltimore Ravens

Football season is here and you know what that means, don't you? If we weren't so freakin' beer happy all year round, we would call it beer season, because there really is no better way to cheer your team than with a pint or mug of your favorite local craft brew. All season we will be taking a look at the beer scenes in cities representing all 32 NFL teams — from local brewers to beer-centric bars to the finest beer shops.

And if you're not into sports but enjoy a quality imperial oatmeal stout (it's OK, we're not judging), then read on anyway to see how cities across the country are taking their suds more seriously than ever. Up next, the Baltimore Ravens.

WHAT TO DRINK

Union Craft Brewing Balt Altbier: This creamy German-style beer is a deep caramel color with rich, malty aromas and approachable hoppiness. It comes in a can for easy access and maximum freshness. unioncraftbrewing.com

Stillwater Artisanal Ales Cellar Door: This "gypsy brewer" makes beer out of different breweries, which seems to be a great model if you consider this American farmhouse ale. It's fruity and mildly spiced with an herbaceous finish. stillwaterales.blogspot.com

Heavy Seas Märzen: This Oktoberfest-style beer is full of toasted bread and malt notes. Pale amber in color, it's light and crisp, with subtle grassy flavors and caramelized overtones. hsbeer.com

WHERE TO DRINK IT

The Brewer's Art: Not only one of the best bars in Baltimore, but repeatedly named one of the best bars in America, this brewpub is housed within a splendid 19th century townhouse and done up in a sophisticated style. Alongside house brews, expect a generous selection of guest ales. 1106 North Charles Street, 410-547-6925, thebrewersart.com

Max's Taphouse: Located right by the harbor and easily accessed by water taxi, this beer temple features a whopping 140 taps, plus five hand-pumped cask ales, and a collection of some 1,200 beers from around the world. Oh, and solid pub food to boot. 737 South Broadway, 410-675-6297, maxs.com

Alewife: With 40 taps featuring a rotating cast of domestic and international beers, this bar is known for always pouring something new. A true gastropub, the menu includes items like wild boar meatballs and truffled mac 'n' cheese. 21 North Eutaw Street, 410-545-5112, alewifebaltimore.com

WHERE TO BUY IT

Honeygo Wine and Spirits: It may be a wine shop first, but this store just outside the city limits is sure to please the beer happy, too. A "wall of beer" is lined with more than 1,100 different local and domestic microbrews and select imports. 5004 Honeygo Center Drive, Perry Hall, 410-529-5500, honeygowines.com

Read more Beer Around The NFL on Food Republic: