Seeking West Coast IPA Gems in New York and New England

As a resident of the New York/New England region, I’ve found my beer preferences evolving over time. As I’ve matured (let’s just say I’m no longer in my twenties), I’ve moved away from the popular New England IPAs, which tend to dominate the local scene. The haziness and juicy flavors seem better suited for the younger crowd, while my palate craves something different these days.

While I still enjoy the occasional Heady Topper or Industrial Arts Wrench, I’ve come to realize that these hop-forward brews are more of a novelty for me now. My stomach has definitely grown less tolerant of certain styles, leading me to a newfound love for more traditional beverages, like pilsners and ESBs. Every once in a while, however, I find myself yearning for the bold, piney flavors typical of a great West Coast IPA.

Unfortunately, finding a good West Coast IPA in this neck of the woods can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The prevalence of hazy IPAs in our market is undeniable, and while I understand the appeal, I can’t help but miss the distinct characteristics of their West Coast counterparts. I recognize the challenges for West Coast breweries in extending their distribution eastward, especially when local breweries capitalize on the haze trend.

That said, I would love to hear your recommendations for any West Coast IPAs that might be available here in the NY metro area. If you know of any reliable options that deliver that classic resinous hop profile, I’d greatly appreciate your insights.

Thank you for indulging my quest for a quality West Coast IPA!