Brooklyn East IPA

Tasting Notes

The aroma leads with citrus peel and pine resin, backed by a mild floral note that keeps things from going one-dimensional. On the palate, grapefruit and light tropical fruit come forward, balanced by a firm but not aggressive bitterness. The body is medium and the malt backbone is restrained — just enough bread to keep the hops anchored. The finish is dry and moderately bitter, lingering without turning harsh.

About the Brewery

Brooklyn Brewery was founded in 1988 in Brooklyn, New York, and played a genuine role in the revival of craft brewing on the East Coast. They're closely associated with Garrett Oliver, their long-tenured brewmaster, who has been one of the more visible voices in American craft beer culture. Their lineup spans from their flagship lager to more ambitious seasonal and special releases, and they distribute widely across the US and internationally.

Food Pairings

Spicy Thai or Indian dishes work well here because the hop bitterness cuts through rich coconut-based sauces rather than amplifying the heat. A sharp aged cheddar pairs naturally with the beer's piney, resinous notes. Grilled chicken or pork with a citrus marinade mirrors the beer's own fruit character without competing against it. Fish tacos with a tangy slaw offer enough acidity to stay lively alongside the dry, bitter finish.

Style Guide

American IPA is defined by assertive hop character — typically citrus, pine, or tropical fruit — with a dry to medium body and bitterness that dominates but doesn't necessarily overwhelm. The style evolved from English IPA traditions but diverged sharply in the late 20th century as American craft brewers leaned into high-alpha domestic and Pacific Northwest hop varieties. Compared to a Double IPA, it's lower in alcohol and less intensely bitter; compared to a Pale Ale, it's more hop-forward in both aroma and finish, with less malt presence.