This Week in Beer: IPAs, Kolsches and Wine Barrels
This week, IPAs are in. National IPA Day bleeds into the weekend with three new releases. If IPAs aren’t your thing, don’t worry. There are a couple other solid options for those yearning to broaden their horizons.
North Bay
Russian River Brewing – Want to try a beer that’s naturally fermented in used wine barrels? Now’s your chance. Beautification is available on draft and in bottles. It’s a seasonal sour ale with 6 percent alcohol.
East Bay
Novel Brewing – Novel Brewing has reintroduced the Park Factor, a German-style Kolsch that’s light and accessible. It’s malty with subtle fruity notes and 5 percent alcohol. Ale yeast is used during fermentation which contributes to a dry, crisp finish. It has 5 percent alcohol.
Armistice Brewing – Mild Thing is aptly named due to its relatively low alcohol content. At 4.2 percent alcohol, it should be a go-to for those long nights. It’s traditionally served on cask at room temperature, so maybe try it after the blazing sun subsides. It’s also lightly sweet with graham cracker tones. S’mores, anyone?
Original Pattern Brewing – National IPA Day has come and gone, but it’s never too late to celebrate. Show some love by trying Original Pattern’s Bay Bridge Brut IPA. If you’re in the mood for a dank and fruity IPA, look no further. Flavors reminiscent of melon, berries, and pine are sure to stimulate the palate. It has 7 percent alcohol.
San Francisco
Laughing Monk Brewing – Laughing Monk is on board with National IPA Day in a big way. Let’s start with Brother Elijah. It’s a hazy New England IPA with stone fruit and citrus flavors. It has 6.2 percent alcohol. And if you’re looking for something a little different, Space Force might be your new thing. It is part of a collaboration with Corralitos Brewing. This Brut IPA features Galaxy and Citra hops. It may not send you to space, but it could lead to an interesting weekend. It also has a surprisingly smooth finish due to pilsner malt and rice. It has 6.5 percent alcohol.
