Photo by Mike Chiltern
Westchester has become known for the quality of its breweries, and with so many impressive beers in the offing, that’s no surprise. Here are three that should not be missed.
2Tone Chocolate Milk Porter
Soul Brewing Company, Pleasantville
A chocolate milk porter in late spring/early summer? It might sound like the wrong season, but Soul gets it right. Brewed with lactose, cacao nibs, and fair-trade vanilla beans, 2Tone is more of a nuanced ale than it is a sweet treat in a can. While it does have notes of milk chocolate and vanilla, it’s also balanced by a dry finish and low alcohol (4.5%). “We like to think of this as a quaffable dessert in a glass, but I also think it pairs nicely with ice cream, tart stone fruits, and other desserts,” says Allen Wallace, owner and brewmaster. Available in cans, 2Tone is perfect for the backyard, beach, or sitting around the campfire while making s’mores. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available at Soul, located steps from the Pleasantville Metro-North station.
Citra Dreams Hazy IPA
Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, Elmsford & Mount Kisco
Hazy IPA is all the rage these days, and when you have one like Citra Dreams from Captain Lawrence, it is easy to see why. This excellent version from one of Westchester’s original craft breweries has notes of tropical sweet fruit and is just the right amount of juicy. Flavors of bright orange and mango are balanced by a pleasant bitterness and a not-too-hefty 7% alcohol by volume. Captain Lawrence has inviting, spacious taprooms in both Elmsford and Mount Kisco, open for indoor and outdoor seating, with dozens of beers on tap and in cans.
Patagonia Argentinian Golden Ale
Wolf & Warrior Brewing Company, White Plains
There just aren’t many golden ales being made anywhere, let alone one this good. Patagonia is extremely refreshing but still packs plenty of flavor, with some expressive citrus and grassy notes, plus a little bit of spiciness. It pairs well with sunny days and patios. Wolf & Warrior’s Downtown White Plains taproom has high ceilings, plenty of room, and is open for both indoor and outdoor seating.
