Craft Beer NYC

For anyone that has ever seen the 1999 David Cronenberg film Exitenz, admirers would agree it's a wild ride that was ahead of it's time.  Jude Law and Jennifer Jason Leigh both give amazing performances, and I think game makers weren't quite sure what to do with the didactic cinematic experience Cronenberg put on screen, still scared straight to drive on a freeway without "Crashing" into an unassuming Jane Mansfield impersonator.   Stillwater's Existent is a remarkably bold, intense ale that caught me by surprise.   The label reads as a ghosted reverse print of a  Nietzsche looking figure.  The after taste has a heavy hoppy overtone, but goes down like a smooth dark stout.  On the surface it looks like a Guinness, but after one taste it has a well bodied blend of dark aromas mixed with the earthy hoppy tones. It is a mandatory requirement to pour into a tall pint glass to  unleash the beast out of the bottle.  Slow pour do...

I first discovered this fantastical craft beer at Mrs. Green's market in Mount Kisco several years ago.  It's popped up in numerous markets in Manhattan and on draft recently as the hop explosion has hit the popular consciousness of the tristate area.  A True IPA, it has a fruitful flavor that goes well with a diverse selection of food pairings.  I love the Illuminati inspired bottle design and spirit of the Woodstock Music Festival from Psychedelic era that adds to the style of this unique beer.  But don't think the gimmick design is meant to hide any lackluster product, this IPA ranks as one of the best on the market.  Don't be fooled that they will take your money and invest like Fidelity, Blue Point is independently owned and operated without the purview of any other corporate entity. Blue Point Brewery is based in Patchogue, Long Island and offers tours and tastings http://www.bluepointbrewing.com/ 8 out of 10 Hops

Just recently discovered this new IPA at the West Side Market.  The label prepares the seasoned brew master for a barrel of monkey laughs!  The Monkey resides from Portland Maine and has a balanced medium taste from a wide variety of hops.  This American IPA brew comes in at 6.9% and is a great compliment to BBQ chicken, sliders, and tasty treats from Prohibition on Columbus.  Monkeys with fists full of hops is a festive image of mid summer fun that everyone should enjoy- Donkey Kong anyone? Recommendation- pour into a tall pint glass down the side to expose the full copper overtone.  Don't drink out of the bottle directly to avoid a harsh bitter nose. 7 out of 10 Monkeys