East Vs. West

*Serious answer to a dumb question*

When someone says west coast vs east coast we automatically assume the conversation is about IPAs. But, if we're just talking about beer in general, I'll take the variety of styles here on the east coast over the preponderance of IPAs on the west coast. Not to say that no other styles are made on the west coast, but you can't deny how much the west coast skews towards the hops.

 

No I can deny it because thats completely false.

 

When we are talking about "the west coast" can we just call it what people are referring to: SAN DIEGO.

 

There is definitely an east coast version of the west coast ipa that has emerged over the past 4 yrs or so. Line up Hill Farmstead Abner or Edward with a Triilium Heavy Mettle and a Tree House Julius --- and taste em next to Some ipas and dipas from Alpine or Noble or RR or Ballast point and you will notice some distinct differences. I love both variations of the style-- but they are distinctly different.

 

I like many beers from all states. If I had to pick a region though I'd probably have to go with the Midwest (IL, OH, MI, IN). But you wouldn't catch me throwin' up a MW beer gang sign.... Because a) like I said I like beers from many states across the country (like OR and CO especially) and b) I don't want to get shot up in a drive-by by the IPA crips representin' anotha region...

 

Vermont > the other 49 states.

100% kidding. Until I've tried more west coast brews I refuse to leave an opinion.

 

You guys fight over the East and West coast, Ill take the midwest. Surly, New Glarus, Pipeworks, 3 Floyds, Bell's, Founder's, Toppling Goliath....

 

I think you missed my point. My point is American IPA is American IPA east coast or west coast, I can make a "west coast" style ipa way out here on the east coast, in my book its still and IPA.
No point splitting the IPA hairs.

 

Meaningless too much good beer to go around all over..

 

And East Coast is everything east of CA.

 

Except if you are in Hawaii...

 

Yes -- there are lots of west coast ipas brewed all over the usa..agree. There also new variants that are unique to certain parts of the east coast...and I'm sure others will emerge in other parts of the country. BAs all about splitting hairs -- gotta get u some real east coast ipas to try.

 

East coast is Greensboro bend.

 

Clearly, West beats East any day. I mean, did you guys watch how Saggitariutt Jefferspin utterly neutralized J'Dinklage Morgoone's pass rush? He's no D'Glester Hardunkichud, that's for damn sure. Sure, the East has Fudge and HaHa Clinton-Dix, but the West has guys like Quatro Quatro, Eqqsquizitine Buble-Schwinslow, Splendiferous Finch, Ozamataz Buckshank, and Shakiraquan T.G.I.F. Carter! I'll concede that there are some losers on the West squad like Squeeeeeeeeeeps and Donkey Teeth, but does the East have anyone who can nail field goals (and lay down sick rhymes) like Dan Smith? NO.

On the plus side, both the East and the West make excellent beer!

 

What about the midwest? How come the midwest is not a factor. Let's face it, Chicago alone has better beer than NYC. Im not saying the midwest crushes everyone but the midwest should be considered in this debate.

 

What about Central?

 

Generally speaking, there is a difference in style between the East and West coast (and to a lesser degree Midwest...similar to a East). It was more distinct several years ago, but now they've started to influence each other and lines are being crossed.

We really have an embarrassment of riches in the US....my advice is to drink local, drink fresh, and drink often!

 

Granted I haven't had a ton of west coast beers but when it comes to IPA's I would have to say the west coast has better shelf IPA's. However the heavy hitter east coast IPA's are far superior IMO. Maine Beer Co. Dinner, Lunch, Another one. Heady, Second Fiddle, SOS, And ANYTHING Trillium is just insane. Melcher street might take the cake for best IPA I have ever had.

 

Woah! You need to have some Yellow Rose or Some Pinthouse Pizza Fully Adrift... You'll start changing your tune... Add in Brash now that they've permanently moved down to Houston and debuted their double IPA ***** Wagon (Yes that's the real name and a Kill Bill Reference) and TX is making leaps and bounds and will be bringing drive by's to your neighborhood soon!