Who brewed the best at Lost Tavern’s Hops 4 Hope festival?
Hellertown’s Lost Tavern parking lots and side streets were jammed last weekend, as hundreds of thirsty folks sampled from nearly 100 bold flavors at the brewery’s annual Hops 4 Hope beer festival.
The fundraiser is an extension of Penn State’s Thon event and raises money to fight pediatric cancer.
Lost Tavern Co-President and VP, Kenny Rampolla even slipped into the Nittany Lion’s costume to greet the Lehigh Valley beer fans.
Rampolla’s dad/Lost Tavern CEO Ken Sr. observed that his son seemed to be “enjoying himself a little too much” as he paraded around to the crowd’s delight.
It was all good, and no one appeared to be seriously injured by Kenny The Lion’s amorous hugs and high-energy high-fives.
The event featured about 30 breweries, live music, food trucks, prize raffles and more.
Lost Tavern also tapped a special brew called “Hops 4 Hope 2022” for the occasion. More on this beer later.
The party started at 1 p.m., and by around 1:05 p.m., the festival’s canopy was loaded with sun-kissed tasters on the spectacular October day. The festival showcased some of the best brews from the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Here’s a sampling of who brewed it best (in no particular order).
Top 6 flights of the fest (in no particular order) Lost Tavern Brewing’s “Hops 4 Hope”IPA, 7.4% ABV (alcohol by volume)
This bright and hazy brew is indeed nice and juicy — just the way you’ll like it. It packs a tasty wallop with a generous and pulpy blend of Sabro, Citra, Mosaic & El Dorado hops. It is a collaboration brew made with a community of brewers and friends. It’s a winner, and it’s available for a limited time at the Hellertown taproom.
New Trail Brewing’s “Forest” Imperial IPA, 11% ABV
Even at 11% ABV, this creamy and foamy concoction went down easy. Maybe too easy. “Forest” delivered notes of apricot, slight pine, peppery peach, melon and vibrant citrus. It’s smoooothe, delicious and perhaps my new favorite from New Trail … and that is saying something.
Warwick Farm Brewing’s “Citra Sensation” NE IPA, 6.5% ABV
This wonderful, hazy, golden IPA boldly stood out as a citrusy smash.
The well-balanced, rich, pillowy, and delectable brew is double dry-hopped, yet delivers a smooth, clean finish.
This selection called for an immediate refill. Get your hands on this sensation!
Hidden River Brewing’s “Embellish Pilsner,” 5% ABV
I’m always in search of a distinctive pilsner, and the folks did not disappoint with this crip champ. Hopped with Hersbrucker and Cascade, it presented a clean, sweet, malty, floral flavor. This one was a real thirst quencher.
Ever Grain Brewing Co. “Peak 15 Cold IPA,” 6.7% ABV
This fresh new choice featured east coast malts and west coast hops. “Peak 15” is brewed cold with a thiol-producing yeast, then dry hopped with a mighty trio of American flowers. It’s an aromatic, refreshing little number with hints of passion fruit, citrus, and snappy pine. Thank you, Sir. May I have another?
Icarus Brewing’s “Hops of Theseus” style, 8% ABV
This was my final, creamy delight of the day. “Hops of Theseus” is brewed with wheat and oats. It featured a nicely balanced whirlpool of Citra and Azacca and a dry hopping of New Zealand Rakau and Strata.
This rich and flavorful NE IPA tasted of orange peel, lemon, and tropical fruit. It was a glass of divine sunshine to round out a fantastic afternoon of tasting.
Cheers!