First Impressions

In the Northeastern United States, autumn offers a much-welcome reprieve from the humid, sweltering heat of late summer. As such, it’s no surprise that day-trippers and weekend vacationers head out in search of local getaways, eager to enjoy the cooler weather and stunning fall foliage.

No surprise that upstate New York is a perfect destination — especially for those in search of a reprieve from the normal city bustle of local population centers like New York City. It’s quite an experience to drive north and seeing the leaves changing color essentially in real time. And so what better place to take a short outing to than a small town on the Hudson River: Beacon, NY. And what better place to visit while you’re there than Hudson Valley Brewery?

Situated along a babbling creek and an abandoned train line, Hudson Valley is a prime spot for anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind beer tasting experience in a one-of-a-kind little town.

But What About the Beer?

There’s nothing quite like a great brewery that features a diverse palate of different brews — well, except for maybe a brewery that crushes it instead by specializing in one fantastic style.

Indeed, when we visited Tilted Barn Brewery in Exeter, Rhode Island, we were very impressed with their primary focus on “A” grade tier IPAs. But at Hudson Valley Brewing in Beacon, New York, you’ll be treated to a menu of mainly “sour” style beers.

To be certain, sour beers are not for everyone. But if you want to try your tongue at them, Hudson Valley should be at the top of your list to ensure that you give them their fairest taste. And for those who do prefer this distinct style, you should probably be on your way to the brewery right now!

Jackie’s Favorite Brew

If you want to be taken on a journey of some of the most uniquely (and artfully) flavored sour beers out there, then Hudson Valley will not disappoint!

As someone who regularly cringes at even the smell of sour beers, I was pretty hesistant in my expectations. However, Hudson Valley’s crisp, balanced, and distinctly formulated drinks made me rethink my entire beer preference profile. Sours are now on my radar! (Pending that they can compete with the awesome quality as experienced at Hudson Valley).

It’s hard to pick just one favorite here! These brews have such personalities that you can make a case for many of the drinks here standing out in each their own way as the most impressive.

But if I had to choose, I’d probably go with the “Feel No Way: Grapefruit”. Just listen to their description: “5% Pilsner brewed w/ grapefruit & hopped w/ Sterling & Hallertau Blanc. Tastes like grapefruit spritzer, spring break.”

Even as someone who is more naturally drawn toward a good stout or pumpkin ale this time of year, their sour (yet still crisp) pilsner was a perfect refreshment even on a cool autumn day!

Joe’s Favorite Brew

Much like Jackie, I could make a case for several of the tap list brews here being my favorite. But I think my best beer award goes to the “Mirrorshield”.

Just listen to this dating profile: “7% Sour IPA w/ raw wheat, malted oat, milk sugar, lychee, chamomile & lavender; hopped w/ Nelson Sauvin & Azacca. Tastes like honey lemon Ricola, sleepytime tea, sitting in a lavender field, candied ginger.”

This description is not just impressive; it’s spot on. More impressive is the fact of how expertly chosen and blended these elements are to craft a sour beer experience like few others you’re likely to find elsewhere!

Listen to our Full Thoughts (and Grade)!

So what did we think of their other beers? The bathrooms? The fact that the food truck featured some of the best pizza we’ve enjoyed in a very long time? Crack a beverage of your own and join us on our podcast to hear our full review (and grade)!