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Summer in the City: Our Favorite IPAs in NYC

The New York Beer and Brewery Tour’s Summer Guide to IPAs

All New Yorkers know it: in a city that sometimes feels like it was built just for culinary and day-drinking convenience, summertime belongs to the IPA. Best of all, it doesn’t take a connoisseur to find some of the best seasonal brews – they’re waiting for you in every borough.

While it’s tempting to stay loyal to your longtime-favorite brews, nearly every brewery in New York boasts a signature IPA and knowing the top options can help you choose where to drink this summer and which new breweries to visit. Indulge with us as we review some of our favorite summertime IPAs, all available at some of the best local breweries in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Here, in no particular order, are our four favorites.

18-WATT IPA – Singlecut Beersmiths
Billed as the “Redefinition of the Session IPA” this offering from Singlecut features orange zest, pine resin and tropical lupulin flavors, with a substantially full, soft malt body that compliments but doesn’t interfere with the hop attack. This beer is perfect for when you want the push, weight, and attack of a much heavier IPA but need to be productive tomorrow. 
5.0 % ABV

Smashmode – Birreria
This Birreria exclusive is only available at their location atop Eataly Flatiron and is brewed in partnership with Dogfish Head.  Brewed with Vienna Goldpils malt and Mosaic hops, this beer exhibits a variety of complex of aromas including papaya, mango, berries, and tropical fruits with plenty of flavors to match.
6.2 % ABV

Green City IPA – Other Half
This oat IPA from Other Half is brewed with a blend of Citra, Centennial, and Simcoe hops.  Pale straw in color, it’s cloudy, but not as thick as others in the style. Very hop forward, with loads of pineapple and other tropical fruit flavors and a touch of citrus. 7.0 % ABV

Hib-Hop – Iconyc Brewing Company
Featuring a balance of hibiscus, rosehip, lemongrass, and whole cone Sorachi Ace hops, Hib-Hop is as eclectic as the music that inspired it.  Light and refreshing, this beer has a light purplish color and a complex nose loaded with fruit, flower and spice notes. 8.0 % ABV

By Seth Zakula

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