This Week in Beer: Tropical Wheats, Hazy IPAs and Milkshakes
Summer is finally here. That means new releases that range from traditional to out-of-the-ordinary. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or are looking for something familiar to the palate, there is something for everyone on this list.
South Bay
Golden State Brewery – Santa Clara’s Golden State Brewery has a new smooth beer with 5 percent alcohol. The Bikini Bottom Tropical Wheat is a perfect addition to the summer lineup. It is made with pineapple and pink guava. If this doesn’t scream “summer is here,” I don’t know what will. And, no, it’s not a tribute to SpongeBob -or is it?
North Bay
Sonoma Springs Brewing – If you’re feeling adventurous, head over to Sonoma Springs Brewing. There you’ll find a unique IPA called Shake the Blues. It’s a milkshake IPA brewed with vanilla, lactose, and blueberries. It has a unique fruit finish, creamy mouthfeel, and 7.5 percent alcohol.
East Bay
Gilman Brewing – In the mood for a new hazy IPA? Look no further because Berkeley’s Gilman Brewing has just the beer for you. Fuzzy Dice is their first hazy IPA and has 7.75 percent alcohol. It’s made with Vermont Ale yeast and is described as deceptively smooth.
Armistice Brewing – Check out Richmond’s Armistice Brewing for its latest Beach Hair brew. It’s available in draft, 4-packs and single cans. As a hazy IPA with 7 percent alcohol, it packs a punch that will jump-start your weekend. Also joining the list is Bivy Sack, a hazy IPA with 8 percent alcohol. It’s hopped with Mosaic, Cascade, and Wakatu. Not sure what that means? That’s okay.
Mosaic hops are backed by clean bittering, which makes it ideal for single hop ales. The aroma of Cascade hops is distinct; it has a pungent floral and fruity scent that is reminiscent of citrus and grapefruit. It is mainly used in American pale ales and lagers. Wakatu hops are used for flavoring and bittering beer.
Now go out and try some new beer! It is summer after all…
