BREWERY REVIEW in New York: Wild East Brewing Co.

Is it me or has the “craft beer” scene sort of cooled off? I am sadly not as plugged into it as I once was, despite still following it somewhat, especially in New York. And while there were quite a few brewery openings over the last decade (I remember when there were only four in the city), things seemed to have slowed down since COVID.

Obviously, there are many factors that may be in play, including me not being as aware of it all as I once was pre-fatherhood.

But I miss the excitement of checking out a new brewery and so, when possible, I’m going to try to continue my quest to hit all the local breweries. Give me some time. Like a few years.

Wild East is one of those breweries that opened right at the top of the pandemic. They were due to open at the end of 2019 and some delays brought them to New York at the craziest time in our lifetime.

I originally stopped by this large space with a mask still tightly affixed to my face looking for some beer to go. Boy, how far we’ve come!

Recently, I re-visited the brewery on a drab weekend afternoon and found a sparse but diehard local crowd and a friendly bar staff.

Wild East is in the heart of the new brewers’ row in Gowanus – blocks from Finback, Strong Rope, and Threes. Their specialty is traditional Czech beer (although they certainly stray from that) with modern American ingredients and twists. I’ve enjoyed their beers quite a bit at home and was excited to have a full experience sitting right near the brew house.

There’s no official flight here, so I managed to try two tap beers in smaller formats.

I started my quick tasting with Leap Year, a clear hoppy lager with a healthy white head and a grainy, bready nose. The addition of a unique new hop called Alora brought aromas of grapefruit pith and yuzu. It was a very crisp, refreshing lager with a bitter backbone mixed with a classic malt character.

The next one I bit into was a special edition called Linda’s Wings (that my no longer be available at the time of this writing). It’s named for a friend of the brewery who passed away from cancer and a percentage of the purchases of the beer go to Melesa’s Wings, a cancer research organization

This was a super low ABV dark wild that was ultra drinkable. It had a creamy finish with lots of smooth roasted notes of chocolate. It was light and easy with no discernible carbonation. A very nice replacement for my mid-afternoon coffee.

Finally, I had an extra Wild East can at home that I cracked open.

Acceptance is an altbier from last year with a beautiful ruby color and a very clean sweet caramel malt aroma. It drinks super clean with some nutty chocolate notes. I loved the lightness and the pleasant flavor with no bitterness and a touch of sweetness.

I hope my recent exploration of Wild East is a jumping back in of sorts and that this brewery visit is the start of many more to come. Not just for me- but for all those craft beer lovers out there. I know you’re there, aren’t you?

Is Wild East Brewing Co. the best brewery in NY? At this point, it’s a true local hangout with a nice staff and a large variety of beer. I wish they offered flights, but the beers are solid so sticking to just one, it’s hard to choose wrong. 8 out of10.

Is Wild East Brewing Co’s Leap Year the best beer in NY? It gets a 7 out of 10 from me for its refreshing, crisp flavor with unique hop aromas.

Is Wild East Brewing Co’s Linda’s Wings the best beer in NY? It was a good Dark Mild with an 8 out of 10 despite its super low ABV, it has lots of flavor and is as sessionable as they get.

Is Wild East Brewing Co’s Acceptance the best beer in NY? I was seduced by this Alter with its pleasant malty notes and a hint of sweetness. 9 out of 10.