Philly Brew Review: The Shape of Hops to Come by Neshaminy Creek Brewing Co.

Fellow beer connoisseurs, I present to you The Shape of Hops to Come from Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company. I picked up a 4-pack from my local beer spot on UPenn’s campus this past Saturday and like the Sixers-Bucks game that night, it did not disappoint!

Founded in 2010, Neshaminy Creek (or ‘Crick’ to some of you Philly natives) is a local distillery located just north of the city in Croydon, PA. Famous for popular brews such as Jawn Pale Ale and County Line IPA, Neshaminy Creek Brewing Co. has seemingly solidified a spot for itself in the Philadelphia market.

So, what’s Neshaminy Creek’s recipe for success? Some would say its their marketing… flashy labels and creative catch phrases; but to me its all about the hops, and let me tell you, The Shape of Hops to Come lives up to its name. Let’s look at the stats.

The Shape of Hops to Come is available in draft and 16-oz cans. With an ABV of 8.5%, this bad boy packs a punch. However, unlike other beers with a high alcohol by volume, The Shape of Hops to Come doesn’t sacrifice taste. It’s slightly bitter like most hoppy beers, but also has a nice citrus after-taste. It has a piney-tropical aroma of what I can only assume is grapefruit and orange zest, but isn’t overly fruity. The beer boasts a dark amber color (spilled some on my shirt) and is easy to get lost in. By lost in, I mean drink too fast. A 4-pack is moderately priced at around $16.50.

Like many, I prefer to pair my beer. I cracked open 2 cans on Saturday night and paired it with a late 4th quarter Sixers comeback and the unending tears of the Milwaukee Bucks fan base. It was quite delicious. I give The Shape of Hops to Come 4.5 out of 5 stars.