NE Craft Brew

New England IPA, also known as NE IPA, is a beer style that has recently gained popularity. It is a type of India Pale Ale (IPA) with unique characteristics that set it apart from other IPAs and this style of beer is one of my personal favorites. This article will discuss the factors that make NE IPA so unique. History and Origin NE IPA originated in the northeastern region of the United States, specifically in Vermont and Massachusetts. The style emerged in the early 2010s as a response to the growing popularity of West Coast IPAs, which were known for their intense bitterness and high-hop content. The first NE IPA was brewed by The Alchemist, a brewery in Waterbury, Vermont, in 2004. The beer was called Heady Topper, and it quickly gained a cult following among beer enthusiasts. Other breweries in the region, such as Tree House Brewing Company and Trillium Brewing Company, soon followed suit and began brewing their versions of NE IPA.

Palmers Town NEIPA | Twin Barns Brewing Company | New Hampshire Craft Beer Appearance One of the most distinctive features of NE IPA is its appearance. Unlike traditional IPAs, which are clear and bright, NE IPAs are hazy and opaque. This cloudiness comes from using large amounts of hops during the brewing process. The hops create a lot of particulate matter in the beer, which remains suspended in the liquid, giving it a cloudy appearance. Craft Aroma and Flavor NE IPAs are known for their intense hop aroma and flavor but are not as bitter as traditional IPAs. Instead, the hops used in NE IPAs are chosen for their fruity and floral qualities rather than their bitterness. This gives the beer a juicy, tropical flavor reminiscent of citrus fruits, stone fruits, and berries. In addition to hops, NE IPAs often contain adjuncts such as oats, wheat, or lactose. These ingredients contribute to the beer's creamy mouthfeel and add sweetness to balance out the hop bitterness. New England IPA - Malt Character Another factor that sets NE IPAs apart from other IPAs is their malt character. Traditional IPAs have a dry, biscuity malt profile that provides a clean background for the hops to shine. NE IPAs, on the other hand, have a softer, sweeter malt profile that complements the fruity hop flavors. This is achieved using malted barley kilned at a lower temperature, resulting in a more complex malt flavor.

A craft sour ale with bold flavor

If you're a fan of sour beers and fruity candy flavors, you'll want to try the Basic Bitch Sour Ale from Pipe Dreams Brewing. This craft sour ale is packed with so much flavor that it's like a Starburst in your mouth! Well, maybe not like a Starburst, but it's definitely and tart craft sour ale bursting with flavor. One of the first things you'll notice when pouring the Basic Bitch Sour Ale is the strong smell of strawberries. The aroma is so pronounced that you can almost taste the sweetness just from smelling it. And when you take a sip, the beer doesn't disappoint. The flavor is tart and sour, just like sour strawberry candy. The beer has an effervescent feel, making it a refreshing and lively drink.

Pipe Dreams Brewing - Basic Bitch Craft Sour Ale Fruity tooty craft sour As you continue to drink this craft Sour Ale, you may notice that the sourness seems to mellow out a bit. This could be due to the beer aerating and opening up as you drink it. After a few minutes, the beer becomes less tart and more enjoyable. Again, this is a beer that benefits from a little bit of time and patience. It's exciting how the flavors of some beers develop the more you drink them and the more they breathe. At 5% ABV, the Sour Ale is easy to drink and perfect for a summer day or a lazy afternoon. It's a great beer to enjoy with friends or as a standalone treat. And the best part is it's made by Pipe Dreams Brewing, a brewery known for its unique and flavorful beers. The brewery used some particular mathematical beer equations to create this beer, and the result is genuinely one-of-a-kind.

Power Up with this Flavorful IPA

Craft beer enthusiasts rejoice because the Mast Landing Brewing Company, in collaboration with Tripping Animals, has created a larger brew than life. The Larger than Life Triple Dry Hopped IPA is an exquisite creation. It is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Brewed and canned in Westbrook, Maine, this 7.4% ABV brew is nothing short of a masterpiece. You'll notice a sizeable head as you pour it into a glass. A citrus aroma immediately wafts up and engulfs your senses. The smell makes your mouth water, and you'll be eager to take your first sip. Attention grabbing Super Mario themed label One thing that stood out to me when I picked this can up was the art. There's no doubt that marketing Super Mario played into my grabbing this beer. Either way, I'm not disappointed by that because this craft beer was well worth it.

Mast Landing - Larger than Life IPA - Maine Craft IPA 1UP for Hoppy IPA flavor The dryness is immediately apparent, quickly followed by a robust hoppy flavor. The hops in this brew are triple dry-hopped, meaning they're added to the mixture three times. This gives the beer a complex and full flavor. Despite the dryness and hoppiness, the citrus taste appears on the finish, making it a well-balanced brew. One of the most surprising things about the Larger than Life Triple Dry Hopped IPA is its smooth and pillowy mouthfeel. The texture is soft and velvety. It makes this craft beer easy to drink, despite the high alcohol content. This beer is a perfect example of how a beer can be both intense and smooth.

Craft Sour Beers | Rising up in Popularity

Craft beer is constantly changing, as are craft brewing styles and techniques. Currently, kettle sours are having their moment, particularly in the United States. If you are unfamiliar with kettle sours, they're a type of tart and refreshing beer with a distinctive sourness that comes from adding lactic acid to the kettle during brewing. They originated in Belgium around the turn of the 18th century.

Battery Steele Brewing - Endless Ride Kettle Sour - Craft Kettle Sour One of the breweries in the kettle sour scene is Battery Steele Brewing, located in Portland, Maine. Notably, the Endless Ride Kettle Sour. This beer is a perfect example of the style, with a bright, sour flavor and a tangy finish that keeps you coming back for more. This blog post will examine Battery Steele Brewing and what makes the Endless Ride Kettle Sour. The Endless Ride series | Featuring Blueberry and Lemon Zest This beer has an ABV of 3.9% and a hazy cranberry color, almost resembling blueberry juice. Upon the first taste, the Blueberry and Lemon Zest variation hit the front of the palate with a sour and tart flavor. The beer has active carbonation and a sharp, quasi-dry mouthfeel. The lemon sourness is prominent initially, while the blueberry taste is noticeable on the finish. The beer is also very acidic, which is unsurprising for a sour beer, so keep that in mind. The Blueberry and Lemon Zest variation was pleasing to look at. It has the appearance of blueberry juice. Unfortunately, there wasn't much of a head, and what was there dissipated quickly. This craft beer is not quaffable, and the intense sourness may not appeal to those who prefer sweeter beers. Or those who may like hoppy or malty craft beers.

Lawson's Finest Liquids Sip of Sunshine IPA has been popular among craft beer enthusiasts and is brewed by a Connecticut-based brewery that prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients. The Sip of Sunshine has garnered a loyal following for its distinctive blend of hoppy bitterness and citrus flavors. In this article, we'll delve into the history of Lawson's Finest Liquids, the story behind Sip of Sunshine. What makes this IPA stand out from the crowd? Whether you're an avid craft beer drinker or new to the scene and looking to expand your horizons, this piece will undoubtedly pique your interest in Lawson's Finest Liquids IPA. What this Sip of Sunshine is about While many people associate IPAs with the West Coast, there are plenty of excellent examples of the style from all over the country. One such example is the Sip of Sunshine IPA from Connecticut.

Lawson's Finest Liquids. Sip of Sunshine Craft IPA This beer is a hop lover's dream, with a robust and hop-forward flavor that will please even the most discerning palate. At 8% ABV, it's a strong beer, but it's also refreshing and easy to drink, with a juicy tropical fruit character that's hard to resist. One of the standout features of this craft IPA is its aroma. The beer is bursting with the scent of orange zest. This gives the beer a bright, citrusy quality that's hard to ignore. And once you take a sip, you'll be hit with a resinous, hoppy flavor that coats your mouth in hops. Despite its bold flavor, this beer is also incredibly smooth and easy to drink. It's a beer you can savor slowly, enjoying the complex layers of flavor that unfold with each sip. And if you're a fan of IPAs, it's a beer you should add to your list of must-tries. Brighten up your day with a little Sip In conclusion, Lawson's Finest Liquids Sip of Sunshine IPA is a beer that lives up to its name. With its bright, citrusy aroma, robust hoppy flavor, and refreshing tropical fruit character, it's a standout example of the IPA style. Brewed with locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients, this beer is a testament to the craft and care that goes into making a truly exceptional beverage.

Leading the way in dessert themed craft beers

Craft beer has come a long way over the years, with craft brewers constantly pushing the boundaries of what can be done with ingredients and flavor profiles. One trend that's become increasingly popular in recent years is dessert-inspired beer such as the Cherry Cheesecake Sour. These beers incorporate classic dessert flavors into brewing, creating unique and exciting flavor combinations. However, it's important to note that not all dessert-inspired beers are created equal. Many of these beers end up with flavors that fall flat or are too overpowering. That's why it's essential to approach these types of beers with an open mind and research before diving in. Considering that, we will look closer at one specific dessert-inspired beer: Smuttynose Brewing Co.'s Cherry Cheesecake Sour. We'll explore this beer's flavor profile, aroma, and mouthfeel and share our honest thoughts on whether or not it lives up to the hype. So, whether you're a die-hard beer lover or just curious about the latest craft beer trends, read on to discover what we thought of this unique and intriguing brew.

Smuttynose Brewing Company - Cherry Cheesecake Sour Cherry Cheesecake Sour by Smuttynose Smuttynose Brewing Co.'s Cherry Cheesecake Sour is a unique and exciting beer that will delight both beer lovers and dessert enthusiasts. At 5.5%, it's a medium-strength brew perfect for sipping on a warm day or pairing with a light meal. One of the first things you'll notice about this beer is its aroma. It's light and subtle, with a hint of vanilla that's not overpowering. The beer has a smooth and creamy mouthfeel, which makes it easy to drink and enjoy. The color of the beer is a pleasant amberish red, and it's very active and effervescent, which adds to its overall appeal. Sour Cherry and Cheesecake flavor that doesn't disappoint The taste of this craft Sour is where things get interesting. At first, it's crisp and slightly tart, but the flavors become more complex as you continue to drink. There's a hint of cherry and vanilla on the finish, which gives this beer its unique flavor profile. It's not too sweet but not too sour, either. It's just the right balance of flavors to make it a pleasure to drink.

When it comes to craft beer, few breweries come to mind that can top the creativity of Woodland Farms Brewery. This craft brewery has been creating unique and delicious craft brews in Kittery, Maine, since 2017. For example, the Peanut Butter & Fluff Stout is a decadent combination of rich peanut butter flavor and light marshmallow fluff, making for an incredibly smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.

Woodland Farms Brewing - Peanut Butter Fluff Stout - Maine Craft Beer PB and Fluff Flavor done right This beer is brewed with what I expect to be a blend of malts, oats, lactose sugar, cocoa nibs, and vanilla beans. This creates a creamy body with subtle chocolate notes. In addition to these ingredients, I think Woodland Farms adds peanut butter powder, adding that extra layer of nutty goodness. The result is a robust stout packed with flavor but still surprisingly light on the palate. The aroma is sweet and nutty, with hints of roasted malt and chocolate. Next, you’ll find more creamy peanut butter flavors, marshmallow fluff notes, and dark chocolate on the palate. The finish is smooth and slightly dry, with lingering hints of roasted malt and cocoa.

The Last Chair Brewery | Plymouth, New Hampshire

Every once in a while, you find an extraordinary place. It seems odd to say this, but, The Last Chair Brewery is one of those places. It has a unique charm and a down-to-earth atmosphere where you can relax and feel comfortable. I don't know how I've passed this craft brewery so often in my travels for work (real work). It's tucked away in an unassuming location you can easily pass over in Plymouth, New Hampshire. That is, until you know it's there, and it's hard to forget. This was one of fewer than two dozen craft breweries in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Upon arriving, you notice the ski memorabilia adorning the walls and entrance outside. Entering the brewery is like you've been transported into a cozy ski lodge. There's a stone fireplace and accents of woodwork throughout. The area is clean and well kept considering how busy it was the Saturday I visited.

The Last Chair Brewery - Award Winning Nachos The Last Chair Brewery | Mouth Watering Food I should focus on the beer because that's why I'm doing this. But, the food here can only go with mention. After being seated, the server mentioned that The Last Chair Brewery had been awarded second in New Hampshire for their nachos. It's safe to say they were worthy of at least second place. I've yet to try the nachos that currently hold first place. If you've been to both spots, leave a comment and let me know! We are a destination unlike any other. Our restaurant showcases a menu of dishes that are uncomplicated, yet elevated, in an atmosphere that is casual, yet exceptionally special. Guests can expect to want to stay a while sipping on our craft beer or enjoying a delicious handcrafted cocktail. Listen to local musicians perform live on our beautiful picturesque mountain view patio or inside cozied up by the beautiful stone fire place. The Last Chair Brewery Craft beer done right And now, for the moment, I've been waiting for—the beer. You know if you've already been to the Last Chair Brewery. These brewer(s) at The Last Chair have done an exceptional job. I selected four beers that weren't typically in my wheelhouse (usually just traditional IPAs), and each was equally delicious. I'll review these beers individually, as they all deserve attention. I do, however, want to mention the Vortex Milkshake IPA briefly. That beer quite literally blew my socks off. Even if you aren't into IPAs, this craft beer is on a level of its own.

A Brew from The Last Chair Brewery in Plymouth, New Hampshire Beer lovers often have high expectations when it comes to finding the perfect stout. The Last Chair Brewery in Plymouth, New Hampshire, has answered this call with their Eclipse Milk Stout. This rich and robust milk stout is a crowd-pleaser satisfying any beer lover's cravings.

Eclipse Milk Stout - The Last Chair Brewery - New Hampshire What makes the Eclipse Milk Stout special The Eclipse Milk Stout is a perfect combination of dark chocolate and coffee notes, with a sweet creaminess from adding lactose. This results in a smooth craft beer that is delicious and incredibly satisfying. Dark chocolate and coffee notes are a staple of the stout style, and this stout is no exception. The dark chocolate flavor comes through in a big way, with a rich and full-bodied taste that will surely please any chocolate lover. Meanwhile, the coffee notes add a bit of bitterness that balances out the sweetness of the lactose and dark chocolate flavors.

Pistol Pilsner: A Czech-Style Lager from Last Chair Brewery

The Last Chair Brewery did a fine job with this crisp and clean craft beer, Pistol Pilsner. This Czech-style pilsner is the perfect blend of subtle complexity and easy drinking, making it a well-balanced choice for any occasion, especially eating fantastic pizza from their kitchen.

Pistol Pilsner - The Last Chair Brewery - New Hampshire Pistol Pilsner is brewed with a blend of carefully selected malts and hops, including the famous Saaz hop. This hop, originating from the Czech Republic, imparts a unique floral and spicy character to the beer that perfectly complements the crisp malt profile. The result is a beer that is both refreshing and full of flavor, making it an excellent option for those warm summer days or for pairing with food. How the Last Chair Brewery makes this Pilsner stand out One of the standout features of Pistol Pilsner is its clean, crisp taste. This is achieved through a combination of proper brewing techniques and high-quality ingredients. In addition, I expect that the lager is conditioned for several weeks. This allows it to mature and develop its character further. The result is a beer that is smooth, crisp, and easy to drink, making it an excellent option for those who are looking for a classic pilsner.

Savor the Sweetness | Vortex Milkshake IPA from The Last Chair Brewery

The Last Chair Brewery, located in Plymouth, New Hampshire, is a remarkable place for its delicious craft beers and inspiring take on traditional food. Vortex Milkshake IPA is no exception. This unique craft beer features a Peaches N' Cream style flavor brewed with peach puree, vanilla, and lactose. The result is a delicious and refreshing IPA that is certainly worth trying. I love IPAs but was skeptical about adding Peaches and Cream. There was a chance that the peaches and cream flavor would be overwhelming. Boy, was I wrong; I'm practically drooling just thinking about this beer.

Vortex - Milkshake IPA As soon as you open a can of this IPA, you'll be greeted with a strong smell of peaches. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. However, when you take your first sip, you'll be blown away by a "vortex" of the rich and creamy flavor of peaches and cream—followed by the hops expected from an IPA. The combination of sweet and fruity flavors perfectly balances the hoppy aftertaste, making this craft IPA a delight. Vortex Milkshake IPA | A hazy and delicious craft beer Vortex Milkshake IPA is hazy and has a beautiful amber color. It's perfect for a warm summer day but also great for sipping on a fantastic evening by the fire. Who am I kidding? Drink this beer whenever because it's just that good. The beer has a smooth and creamy texture and is delicious to the last drop. Even if you don't like IPAs, this beer offers plenty of other flavors. The hops aren't overpowering because this is a well-rounded craft beer. I really could go on and on about this IPA. I'm honestly surprised I haven't been having dreams about it! I never expected to enjoy a "milkshake" IPA as much as I did, considering I usually prefer a more traditional IPA. I'll seek out more IPAs with different flavors you don't usually see.

Best of January 2023

I wanted to bring you the Best of January 2023 craft beers from the past month. I've reviewed a wide variety of craft beers from numerous craft breweries all across New England. Some of these brewers are widely known, while others I've just heard of when I started to take a closer look at all the craft beer offerings available to me here in New England. Before I take you to the beers, I want you to understand how I approach the rating of these craft beers. To keep it simple, I wanted to present my favorites solely based on enjoyment and drinkability. Because at the end of the day, that's all that matters. So, with that in mind, let's look at my top three favorite beers from this past month. Salem Lager - Notch Brewing For some time now, I've been looking for a refreshing Lager with plenty of quaffable flavors. The Salem Lager from Notch Brewing was delivered. It was crisp and refreshing from start to finish. It wasn't over complicated or gimmicky in any way. Salem Lager is just a straightforward Lager with great flavor that stays true to its roots. I'll be honest; when I first sipped this beer, it made me smile. So many times you crack open a beer, you've rolled the dice on, and you get let down. That wasn't the case at all. After my "professional tasting assessment," which consisted of drinking it slower than usual, I just sat back and enjoyed the rest. So if you spot this particular craft lager on any of your journeys, do yourself a favor and pick it up - you won't be disappointed.

Salem Lager - Notch Brewing Check out the full review of Salem Lager by Notch Brewing of Vermont. Mountain Haze - Woodstock Inn and Brewery Every once in a while, you find something that hits just right. Sometime earlier this year, I had tried Mountain Haze on a whim before I decided to start reviewing craft beers across New England. It was probably a post-hike snag from the local craft beer exchange. Regardless, this beer is the quintessential post-hike beer. Rich in flavor and refreshing. With this craft beer, you can sit and reflect in quiet contemplation as it doesn't demand your full attention. It lets you know it's there with its bright hoppy flavor without being too upfront. Woodstock Inn and Brewery have always delivered quality craft beer. Mountain Haze doesn't disappoint and allows you to enjoy it while calmly enjoying your favorite memories from your last hike. I'll be grabbing more Mountain Haze whenever I get the opportunity. This craft beer after a hot summer hike is perfect. Feel free to check out the full review of Mountain Haze by Woodstock Inn and Brewery, or grab some the next time you see it!

Woodstock Inn and Brewery - Mountain Haze Spiked Smoothie Strawberry Lemonade There always seems to be one can that catches my eye, whether it's the crazy graphic or bright color combination. This one was the latter of the two. I can't tell you how many times I have been burned by fancy can art. Perhaps, I'll start a section focusing on just beer with deceptive cans that draw you in only to be disappointed by subpar craft beer. Despite its bright colors, Connecticut Valley Brewing Company has one hell of a fruit beer with their Spiked Smoothie. I was checking out all their flavors, and they have quite a selection for the Spiked Smoothie line. Anyways - I was thrown off by this. I had circled back to the case where this can was twice before I picked it up. But, knowing I was taking a chance, I grabbed it anyways. This has had to have been one of the more memorable beers this month. I feel like a broken record when I mention that I don't care for fruit beers or sours. This is THE exception. I haven't tasted anything quite like this. Check out the full review of Spiked Smoothie Strawberry Lemonade by Connecticut Valley Brewing Company.

Suppose you're looking for a hearty and delicious brown ale. Then look no further than Boneshaker, a craft brown ale from Moat Mountain Brewing Company. This English-style brown ale boasts a rich malty flavor perfectly balanced by a crisp and refreshing finish. At 5.4% ABV, it's easy to drink without being too heavy, making it the perfect choice for any occasion.

Bondcliff DIPA craft beer from Schilling Beer Co. is a delicious and refreshing brew sure to please any beer lover. At 8.5% alcohol by volume, it packs a punch while maintaining a smooth and easy-drinking taste. However, the thing that drew my attention to this beer was the label. The views from atop Bond cliff and the flavor of this DIPA from Schilling beer company are equally spectacular.

Schilling Beer Co. - Bondcliff DIPA Bondcliff DIPA | Aroma and Flavor The aroma of Bondcliff DIPA craft beer is unique, with a mix of citrus and tropical fruit notes that will awaken the senses. The scent of tangerine and pineapple is particularly prominent, giving the beer a bright and lively aroma that will indeed please. The smell is crisp, similar to the mountain air up on Bond Cliffs.

Schilling Beer Co. - Bondcliff DIPA When it comes to taste, Bondcliff DIPA does not disappoint. It is hazy, juicy, and hoppy, with a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness, making it a delightful brew. The hops in this craft beer are carefully selected to provide a complex and satisfying flavor profile that will please even the most discerning palates. One of the best things about Bondcliff DIPA is its mouthfeel. It is soft and creamy, with a nice balance of carbonation that makes it easy to drink. The finish is smooth and clean, leaving you wanting more with each sip.

A Refreshing NEIPA from Woodstock Inn Brewery Craft beers can be perfect for any occasion, and Woodstock Inn Brewery has perfected the post-hike IPA. Mountain Haze is a New England IPA with a little something for everyone. It's hazy and golden copper, with a moderate head and floral notes. With just 6% ABV and 40 IBU, it's easy to drink while packing plenty of flavors. Let’s take a closer look at this unique brew!

Woodstock Inn and Brewery - Mountain Haze Aroma & Flavor Profile Woodstock Inn and Brewery created this NEIPA with Mosaic Cryo, Citra Cryo, and Azacca hops. This blend creates a complex aroma of subtle malt and slightly hoppy notes. You'll get a hint of bitterness on the tongue, but it quickly fades into an enjoyable aftertaste that will have you reaching for another sip! What Sets Mountain Haze Apart? If you're looking for an IPA with flavor yet light enough to drink all day, then Mountain Haze is your beer! Unlike many other IPAs on the market today that is heavy on hops and bitterness, Mountain Haze is surprisingly balanced and approachable. So whether you’re an experienced craft beer drinker or someone just getting into the world of IPAs, this beer has something to offer everyone.

Rek' Lis Brewing Company NEIPA Now for another New England IPA. I give you Rek' Lis Brewing Company in Bethlehem, NH, a unique and unforgettable NEIPA called Clouded Judgement. With 5.3% ABV and a medley of late-addition hops, this beer is fruity and sweet like candy with a pillowy head and feather-light body. Let’s explore what makes this NEIPA truly special.

Reklis Brewing - Clouded Judgment NEIPA Clouded Judgment NEIPA | Bold Flavor Combining Galaxy, Citra, and Mosaic hops provides a pleasant citrus flavor that starts the drinking experience with Rek’Lis Clouded Judgement NEIPA. In addition to the hoppy taste, a slight floral tone gives this beer an exciting complexity. The beer has a pillowy head and feather-light body. The conclusion of each sip provides drinkers with a juicy, hoppy flavor, making it an all-encompassing experience from start to finish. The flavor of Clouded Judgement is incredible for a New England IPA. Rek’Lis Brewing Company uses locally sourced ingredients whenever possible to ensure quality taste and freshness in every can or keg they produce. So from the moment you open a can, the last drop hits your lips. You are sure to enjoy every moment spent savoring this great beer!

I Will Survive | A Craft Beer to Support Domestic Violence Awareness Lithermans Limited Brewery in Concord, NH, has created a sour beer called I Will Survive. This tart brew is a 5% Alcohol by Volume Iced Tea and Lemonade Sour Ale that helps promote domestic violence awareness. Let’s explore this unique beer and the cause it supports!