What beer or brewery represents your state?

Alabama: Straight To Ale, Monkeynaut IPA

Several years ago, Hunstville, Alabama experienced a surge in craft breweries. One of the truly local, and southern inspired breweries, is Straight to Ale. Their well-crafted beers with humorous names and great label art makes this brewery my choice for the Alabama beer. The one can to crack open, Monkeynaut IPA.

Straight To Ale is proud of its Southern roots. The brewery’s tag line is “Southern Born, Southern Brewed.” Since its founding in 2009, the brewery has expanded but never lost sight of its local roots. The original Huntsville location serves as inspiration for its year round brews, seasonal brews and limited edition releases. The breweries releases are primarily available in Southern states.

Available year round, Monkeynaut IPA is rich, amber color, slightly fruity IPA. Before talking about the beer itself, can we address the hilarious can art? The label features a space monkey. Paying homage to the space program in Hunstville, this beer celebrates the brave primates that lead the space race. Who wouldn’t at least smile a little bit when drinking a beer with a monkey on it.

According to Straight To Ale, the Monkeynaut IPA “has a citrusy, floral hop aroma, a strong malt body and a crisp finish.” While the beer might to slightly sweet, the hoppy undertones balance the flavors. This beer would be quite enjoyable watching an afternoon football game or paired with some backyard barbecue. With a slightly higher alcohol content, this beer is better enjoyed slowly and simply.

Monkeynaut IPA 7.2% ALC /VOL, 70 IBU’s. To find a vendor near you, please visit the brewery’s website.

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