Les Cheneaux Distillers’ Island Hopper IPA

Bottoms Up

By Anna Faller | Feb. 18, 2023

When it comes to tasting new beers, we like to keep our options open. At Bridge Street Tap Room in Charlevoix, those options feel almost endless thanks to a whopping 32 taps all featuring Michigan craft beer and hard cider. Our go-to, though, is the Island Hopper IPA via Les Cheneaux Distillers. Brought under the bridge—literally—from Cedarville, this American Double IPA is dry-hopped during fermentation for a punchy, bitter kick to complement a double dose of caramel malt. The result is a heady, golden-hued ale with a balanced palette and smooth finish. (But take note of the increased ABV at 8.7 percent!). Pair one with the soy-spiked Sekushi Tuna from Bridge Street’s menu, and we bet it’ll be the best choice you make all day. Try Island Hopper IPA in a 9-ounce snifter for $6, or enjoy one in a tasting flight at Bridge Street Tap Room in Charlevoix (202 Bridge Street). bridgestreettaproom.com, (231) 437-3466