Way back in 2019, media outlets like The Atlantic declared the season “White Claw Summer.” The hard seltzer was trending for its portability and rising popularity. In an effort to bring the buzz back in a post-vaccination America, White Claw released a higher-alcohol version this year.
Sorry, White Claw. But 2021 is the year to toast to all things Long Island. Around the region, breweries are putting a local twist on the national hard seltzer trend. If you’re ready to raise a glass—or can—to brighter days, you can find Long Island hard seltzers at these popular breweries. (If you’re staying in, check their sites for retail locations and online buying info.)
Great South Bay Brewery, Bay Shore
This South Shore watering hole has never shied away from experimentation. Its seasonal lineup includes the Tangerine Creamsicle, which bucks the flavor of a traditional summer ale in favor of something that tastes as sweet as a 70-and-sunny day feels. But Great South Bay Brewery also carries more than a handful of hard seltzer options. There’s tangy flavors like sour cherry and sparkling lemonade. Watermelon, pineapple and kiwi taste refreshing on a balmy day, and the sweet and fizzy Grape Fool Aid is developing a cult following.
Blue Point Brewing Co., Patchogue
This long-time favorite brewery is anything but one-note. The decades-old establishment, which moved from River Ave. to Main Street in 2019, is now offering guests hard tea seltzers with the cheeky call to action, “Get LIIT.” The sippers are hitting multiple taste buds. Sweet tooths will enjoy the Mango LIIT and Peach LIIT options, while those looking for something a bit sourer will want to grab a Lemon LIIT. Raspberry Lime LIIT is ideal for folks who can’t make up their minds.
Po’Boy Brewery, Port Jefferson
This unassuming brewery in a Port Jeff strip mall opened in 2017. It quickly developed a fanbase that consisted not only of beer drinkers but also those who were savoring the hard cider trend. And these days, guests can find hard seltzer on the menu, too. Pink Clown Juice is 4 percent alcohol by volume (ABV). It’s a bit sweet but not overwhelmingly so. Light and refreshing, it’s ideal for people like hitting up a brewery more than they actually like beer.
Montauk Brewing Co., Montauk
Lemonade and seltzer are two classic summer sippers. It’s 2021, and you’re over 21—so put an adult twist on them while taking in the sights and surf at The End. Montauk Brewing Co. unveiled 12-packs of lemonade-flavored hard seltzer in the spring. Flavors include original, pink, blueberry and strawberry, and each is a little bit tangy, a little bit sweet and absolutely refreshing. And unlike regular lemonade, there’s no added sugar (and 5 percent ABV). People can get them at liquor stores throughout the Island and New York City.
Oyster Bay Brewing Co., Oyster Bay
This Gold Coast brewery serves up favorite beers like the Islander-inspired Barn Rocker and thirst-quenching summer sippers like the Summer Peach. But it also has an option for those looking to give the hard seltzer trend a dry. The Southside contains a combination of hard seltzer and a natural fruit extract for a drink that tastes like a mojito in a can. It makes for a perfect beach-day or boat-day companion.
