In a year that saw a drop in overall U.S. beer sales, craft breweries rose to the challenge and saw a booming year. Beer sales dropped in the United States by about 5 million barrels in 2009. According to the Brewers Association however, Craft Brewers saw a 7.2 percent growth in volume, equaling almost 614,000 barrels.

“Beer lovers continue to find great value and enjoyment in fuller flavored craft beers,” said Paul Gatza, director of the Brewers Association. “Americans have an increasing appreciation of craft beers, and the growing number of brewers behind them. They’re eager to try the latest seasonal release and to sample a variety of beers from different breweries.”

There is a nice article over at Beer Advocate with some more statistics about craft beer and beer in general. Check it out!