Craft Beer NYC

Another great selection from the boys in Denver.   I sampled the regular version, not the newly announced Nitro version that I'm very excited about finding in NYC.  With one sip you are immediately hit with strong caramel, vanilla bean, licorice and coffee flavors.  This rivals some of the Milk stouts I've had, but provides a pleasant balanced tone for all evenings. Vanilla Guinness anyone? Try food pairings with spicy chicken or diablo spiced pasta. Hops:  Chinook, Palisade, Perle, and Goulding Vanilla Beans:  Paupau New Guinea, and Madagascar 4.7% ABV 8 out of 10 Coffee Beans http://www.breckbrew.com/home

Lagunitas has started to have a huge presence in the NYC area in both markets and bars.  This is a great even hopped IPA in regular and super strength.   Brewed with 43 different hops and 65 different malts this new take on an ancient craft glides into style.  Lagunitas started brewing this back in 1995 with their first batch of craft beer after it's founders all gathering in Northern California from St. Louis, Chicago, and Memphis.   Depending on the week you're having I recommend the Maximus if you find it- why not go full strength!    Great for watching the Brooklyn Nets glide toward another playoff birth and championship crown while munching on pretzels and sliders. ABV 6.2% IPA ABV 8.2% Maximus 8.5 out of 10 Chariot Rides in the Circus Maximus http://lagunitas.com/brewery/