Photo by Jeffery Horne
First State Brewing Company’s Elliptic Cipher is one of its first canned beer releases and the perfect brew for Delaware’s summer nights.
Libation of the Month: Elliptic Cipher West Coast IPA
Where to Find It: First State Brewing Company, 109 Patriot Drive, Middletown; 285-9535; firststatebrewing.com
With one of its first canned-beer releases, Middletown’s First State Brewing Company brings a West Coast IPA to the mid-Atlantic. The Elliptic Cipher—the first in its “Cipher” series—is a 6.5-percent ABV and 70 IBU brew taking inspiration from India pale ales made famous by California-based Stone Brewing and Lagunitas Brewing Company. The IPA focuses on high-quality ingredients, creating a bold and hop-forward brew with a tropical twist—perfect for summer nights spent outdoors. Since the brewery started canning 16-ounce four-packs of popular varieties earlier this year (and they continue to add more), I’ve looked forward to bringing them home, but if you’re looking to sample in-house, you’ll find two knowledgeable cicerones on staff who are eager to help you find the perfect brew for your palette.