Doctor Frank
Laughing Monk Brewing

Sorry Laughing Monk, but you are Belgian-aspiring and you get a cantankerous Belgo-phile to write the first review of your NEIPA. In the abstract, you have lousy luck. But... you brewed a nice NEIPA, consistent with its still changing norms as a style.

Looks are just average. And that is OK for it is the Smells that draw me into the NEIPA and this one has a nice medley of tropical and hard tree fruits (call it apple.) Tastes deliver the same, an integrated ale. Finishes refreshing in the mouth. (Maybe change the name to Brother Frank, just for consistency.)

Since Laughing Monk is on a street whose name I did not recognize in an intimate city I lived in for nine years in early adulthood, I thought I'd find out more about this brewer and went to their website. It is not elaborate, but is sufficient. And for a brewer who appears to be only 3 years old, they have a staff of over a dozen plus Bay Area sales reps. Their taproom is cool. And Laughing Monk, in general, seems dedicated to interpreting the Belgian tradition for the Bay Area (among other things.). And for all that, I give them Big OA Hugs. Thanks Bros and Sistas. I hope to visit you while I'm visiting here.