10 Best New England IPA Breweries You Need to Visit
New England IPAs (NEIPAs) have taken the craft beer world by storm with their hazy appearance and juicy flavors. If you’re a fan of this delicious style, you’re in luck! In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 Best New England IPA Breweries You Need to Visit. Each offers a unique experience, rich history, and, of course, amazing beers that you simply can’t miss. So grab your tasting glass, and let’s dive in!
What is a New England IPA?
Before we jump into the breweries, it’s essential to understand what makes a New England IPA special. This beer style is known for its:
- Hazy Appearance: Unlike traditional IPAs, NEIPAs are unfiltered, which gives them a cloudy look.
- Juicy Aroma: Expect intense tropical flavors and aromas, often highlighting fruits like mango, pineapple, and citrus.
- Soft Mouthfeel: These beers are often less bitter than other IPAs, making them smoother and more refreshing.
With that knowledge in hand, let’s explore the 10 Best New England IPA Breweries You Need to Visit!
1. Tree House Brewing Company – Charlton, MA
Why Visit?
Tree House is often regarded as the king of New England IPAs. Known for their creativity and quality, they produce a range of highly sought-after IPAs like Julius and Green.
Tip: Arrive early in the day; their limited releases tend to sell out quickly!
2. Trillium Brewing Company – Boston, MA
Why Visit?
Trillium offers a fantastic combination of a beautiful taproom and innovative brews. Their Fort Point and Congress Street IPAs are local favorites that showcase the true essence of NEIPAs.
Tip: Pair your beer with some street food or grab a bite at their onsite restaurant.
3. The Alchemist – Stowe, VT
Why Visit?
Famous for their Heady Topper, The Alchemist set the standard for New England IPAs. They are dedicated to quality and ensuring every pint is exceptional.
Tip: Enjoy their beers fresh at the brewery, or bring some home to enjoy later!
4. Night Shift Brewing – Everett, MA
Why Visit?
Night Shift is known for its creative beers and fun atmosphere. Their NEIPAs, such as Santilli and Whirlpool, are bursting with flavor and a must-try.
Tip: Check their events calendar for fun tasting events and food truck pop-ups!
5. Hill Farmstead Brewery – Greensboro, VT
Why Visit?
Hill Farmstead has a reputation for crafting some of the best beers in the world. They’re committed to sustainability and use local ingredients to produce IPAs like Susan and Edward.
Tip: Take some time to enjoy the gorgeous scenery of Vermont while sipping on their hoppy creations.
6. Lawson’s Finest Liquids – Warren, VT
Why Visit?
Known for their Sip of Sunshine, Lawson’s Finest creates delicious beers that capture the essence of summer. Their brewery offers a unique experience with a great location.
Tip: Try to visit during the summertime to fully enjoy their outdoor seating!
7. Bissell Brothers Brewing Co. – Portland, ME
Why Visit?
With standout beers like Substance and Swish, Bissell Brothers has made a name for themselves with their bold flavors and vibrant community atmosphere.
Tip: Explore Portland’s food scene after your visit—there are fantastic restaurants nearby!
8. Mystic Brewery – Chelsea, MA
Why Visit?
Mystic Brewery excels in blending traditional brewing techniques with new styles. Their NEIPAs are not only tasty but also showcase their dedication to craft.
Tip: Don’t miss their seasonal brews, which often spotlight unique ingredients.
9. Great Notch Brewing Co. – Little Falls, NJ
Why Visit?
Great Notch focuses on creating “sessionable” beers, and their NEIPAs pack a flavorful punch without being too heavy. Their offerings, such as Blackhorn and The Good Life, are perfect for any hop lover.
Tip: Try their beers with a local cheese platter for an exciting pairing!
10. Other Half Brewing Company – Brooklyn, NY
Why Visit?
Other Half Brewing is making waves with their hop-forward IPAs, including their bestselling Green and All Green Everything. The buzz around their beers is undeniable.
Tip: Be prepared for a wait—it’s popular for a reason. Use this time to chat with fellow beer enthusiasts!
Conclusion
New England IPAs offer a refreshing experience that is hard to beat. The 10 Best New England IPA Breweries You Need to Visit are not just about the beer, but about the community, creativity, and passion behind each pint. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, each of these breweries promises to deliver something special.
Don’t forget to plan your visits around events and special releases, and remember to explore the surrounding areas for a well-rounded experience. Cheers to discovering the best NEIPAs New England has to offer!
