Boston's Best Spring Beers
Nothing says springtime better than cracking open a delicious cold beer that encompasses the flavors of the season. March 20 marks the Spring Equinox, and it's now time to change your taste buds from stouts and porters to IPAs and red ales. From a tart grapefruit IPA to a hoppy spring ale, there is something for every taste bud this spring season. Here's a look at our picks for the top five best spring brews.
Samuel Adams
30 Germania Street
Boston, MA 02130
(617) 368-5080
www.samueladams.com
If you love hoppy beer almost as much as we do, the Rebel Grapefruit IPA is a must-try this springtime. Brewed with real grapefruit juice and grapefruit peels, along with West Coast Mosaic hops, the result is a flavor filled light brew. The golden beer is 6.3% ABV and is best enjoyed on its own. If you love citrus flavored beers, this is the one for you this season.
Mayflower Brewing Company
12 Resnik Road
Plymouth, MA 02360
(508) 746-2674
www.mayflowerbrewing.com
Springtime at Mayflower Brewing Company means the tap handles have switched over from the Winter Oatmeal Stout to the Spring Hop Ale. Like many spring ales, this one comes in the form of a red ale to provide a balanced beer. Smooth and crisp, this beer also has a nice citrus flavor and an amber golden color. The seasonal craft beer has become one of New England's favorites and for good reason. Interested in learning more about the brewing process? Be sure to check out the brewery tours offered every weekend.
Harpoon Brewery
306 Northern Avenue
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 456-2322
www.harpoonbrewery.com
Harpoon has been a staple in the Boston brewery industry for decades, so it's no wonder they have a beer that has stood the test of time. Returning again this year is the Celtic Ale, a deliciously light malty ale. Designed to highlight St. Patrick's Day, the medium bodied amber ale is the perfect transition from winter to their summer ales. The seasonal spring brew starts off malty and finishes with a light taste of hops for a well balanced flavor. In addition to great beer, the brewery is hosting a wide range of events this spring. One event you may want to attend is HarpoonFest, a celebration of local beer and music. Be sure to check out the full list of events on their website.
Jack's Abby
100 Clinton Street
Framingham, MA 01702
(774) 777-5085
www.jacksabby.com
If you are still craving the flavor of dark beers, head over to Jack's Abby for their Framinghammer. The black Baltic porter comes on strong with a 10% ABV. As for flavor, think malty sweet combined with a hoppy bitterness. Head over to the beer hall for drinks and snacks where you can try a Sibling Ryevalry, a rye IPL, or a black lager Baby Hammer on tap. With a full list of upcoming events on the calendar, you are sure to find a good time at Jack's Abby.
Trillium Brewing Company
369 Congress Street
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 453-8745
www.trilliumbrewing.com
Nothing says springtime quite like a spotting of the first red robin. The folks at Trillium know just that, which is why they have rolled out their Wakerobin Farmhouse Red Rye Ale. This stronger brew checks in at 7.4% ABV and has a complex taste. Be sure to come here soon because their beer is only available in limited quantities and this is one you won't want to miss.
