Cisco Brewery is a renowned craft brewery located on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. Known for its iconic beers, ciders, and seasonal brews, Cisco has a rich history of crafting flavorful drinks that capture the spirit of the island.
The brewery has garnered a loyal following for its creative blends and quality ingredients.
The Cisco Brewery drink menu offers a wide variety of options, from traditional ales and lagers to fruit-infused ciders and unique seasonal specials. Whether you are a fan of hoppy IPAs, smooth lagers, or refreshing hard seltzers, Cisco Brewery provides a well-rounded selection that caters to all tastes.
Below is an extensive overview of the Cisco Brewery drink menu, featuring detailed descriptions, alcohol content, and recommended pairings to enhance your tasting experience.
Core Beer Selections
The foundation of Cisco Brewery’s lineup consists of their core beer offerings. These brews are available year-round and showcase the brewery’s mastery in crafting balanced and flavorful beers.
Each selection has a distinct profile designed to appeal to a wide audience.
| Beer | Style | ABV (%) | Tasting Notes | Recommended Pairings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whale’s Tale Pale Ale | American Pale Ale | 5.6 | Crisp and hoppy with citrus and pine aromas, balanced malt backbone | Grilled chicken, burgers, light salads |
| Nantucket Nectar | Hard Cider | 5.0 | Sweet apple flavor with subtle tartness and a dry finish | Cheddar cheese, pork dishes, apple desserts |
| East Coast Lager | American Lager | 5.2 | Light-bodied, clean malt flavor with a crisp, refreshing finish | Seafood, light pasta, fresh cheeses |
| Triple Hazy IPA | New England IPA | 6.8 | Juicy tropical fruit character with notes of mango, pineapple, and citrus | Spicy dishes, sushi, sharp cheeses |
Seasonal & Limited Edition Beers
Cisco Brewery prides itself on innovation and frequently releases seasonal and limited edition beers. These offerings reflect the changing seasons and often incorporate local ingredients or unique brewing techniques.
Exploring the seasonal menu is a great way to experience new flavors and discover rare brews that are only available for a short period.
| Beer | Season | Style | ABV (%) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Island IPA | Summer | IPA | 7.0 | Bright and citrus-forward with a tropical hop finish, perfect for warm weather |
| Harvest Pumpkin Ale | Fall | Pumpkin Ale | 6.0 | Rich pumpkin spice aroma with smooth malt sweetness and a hint of cinnamon |
| Winter Warmer | Winter | Spiced Ale | 7.5 | Dark ale infused with cloves, nutmeg, and orange peel for a cozy finish |
| Spring Saison | Spring | Saison | 6.3 | Light and effervescent with floral notes and a peppery spice character |
Hard Seltzers & Ciders
In addition to its beer selection, Cisco Brewery offers a popular range of hard seltzers and ciders. These beverages are crafted to provide refreshing, lower-calorie options for those seeking something light yet flavorful.
The hard seltzers are often fruit-forward with natural flavors, while the ciders showcase carefully curated apple varieties for a balanced taste.
| Drink | Type | ABV (%) | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Cherry Seltzer | Hard Seltzer | 5.0 | Light, bubbly with tart black cherry notes and a crisp finish |
| Ginger Lime Seltzer | Hard Seltzer | 5.0 | Refreshing ginger spice balanced with zesty lime citrus |
| Apple Crisp Cider | Hard Cider | 5.2 | Sweet apple aroma with hints of cinnamon and a smooth dry finish |
| Blueberry Hill Cider | Hard Cider | 5.0 | Fruity blueberry sweetness combined with tart apple cider base |
Non-Alcoholic Options
For guests who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, Cisco Brewery provides a variety of options to complement their visit. These include house-made sodas, sparkling juices, and non-alcoholic beer alternatives.
Each choice is crafted with the same attention to flavor and quality as their alcoholic drinks, ensuring all patrons have a satisfying experience.
| Drink | Type | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ginger Beer | Non-Alcoholic Soda | Spicy ginger with a touch of sweetness and effervescence |
| Blueberry Lemonade | Sparkling Juice | Sweet blueberry balanced by tart lemon with bubbly texture |
| Non-Alcoholic IPA | Alcohol-Free Beer | Hoppy and aromatic with citrus and floral notes without alcohol |
Specialty Cocktails
While Cisco Brewery primarily focuses on craft beers and ciders, their bar also offers a selection of specialty cocktails. These drinks often incorporate Cisco beer or cider as a base ingredient, blending traditional mixology with craft brewing.
These cocktails provide a unique way to enjoy the brewery’s signature flavors in a new format.
| Cocktail | Main Ingredients | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Whale’s Tale Shandy | Whale’s Tale Pale Ale, Lemonade | Light and refreshing blend of pale ale and citrus lemonade, perfect for summer |
| Harvest Mule | Harvest Pumpkin Ale, Ginger Beer, Lime | A fall twist on the classic mule with pumpkin ale and spicy ginger notes |
| Island Sunset | Island IPA, Orange Juice, Grenadine | Tropical and vibrant cocktail with hoppy IPA and sweet citrus flavors |
“Cisco Brewery’s drink menu is a celebration of Nantucket’s coastal charm and craft brewing artistry. Every sip tells a story of local ingredients, creativity, and a passion for quality.” – Beer Enthusiast Magazine
Food Pairing Recommendations
One of the best ways to enjoy Cisco Brewery’s drinks is by pairing them with delicious food. The brewery’s menu is designed to complement their beverage selections, enhancing flavors and creating memorable dining experiences.
Below is a guide to pairing Cisco’s popular drinks with various dishes:
| Drink | Suggested Food Pairings |
|---|---|
| Whale’s Tale Pale Ale | Grilled seafood, fried clams, chicken wings, fresh salads |
| East Coast Lager | Light cheeses, sushi, shellfish, roasted vegetables |
| Triple Hazy IPA | Spicy tacos, curries, sharp cheddar, charcuterie boards |
| Nantucket Nectar Cider | Pork chops, apple pie, sharp cheeses, roasted root vegetables |
| Harvest Pumpkin Ale | Thanksgiving dishes, pumpkin soup, cinnamon desserts, roasted turkey |
Visitor Tips and Ordering Guide
When visiting Cisco Brewery, it’s helpful to know how to navigate their drink menu to maximize your experience. The brewery offers flight options, allowing guests to sample multiple beers in smaller pours.
This is an excellent way to discover your favorites.
Staff members are knowledgeable and happy to provide recommendations based on your flavor preferences. Don’t hesitate to ask about new releases or seasonal specialties that might not be listed on the standard menu.
Here are some tips for ordering:
- Try a Flight: Choose 4-5 small samples to taste a variety of beers or ciders.
- Ask for Recommendations: Staff can suggest drinks based on your preferred styles or flavor profiles.
- Pair with Food: Enjoy the brewery’s food menu alongside your drinks for a full sensory experience.
- Check Seasonal Menus: Seasonal brews rotate frequently, so always inquire about the latest offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ABV range of Cisco Brewery drinks?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) of Cisco Brewery’s drinks typically ranges from 5.0% to 7.5%, with most beers clustering around 5.5-6.8%. Seasonal specials may have slightly higher alcohol content.
Does Cisco Brewery offer gluten-free options?
While most beers contain gluten, some ciders and hard seltzers are naturally gluten-free. It’s best to check with the brewery directly for the most up-to-date gluten-free selections.
Can I purchase Cisco Brewery drinks to take home?
Yes, Cisco Brewery offers cans and bottles for sale on-site and through select retailers. They also provide growler fills for many of their beers.
Are there non-alcoholic beverages available?
Yes, Cisco offers non-alcoholic sodas, sparkling juices, and alcohol-free beer alternatives for guests who prefer no alcohol.
Conclusion
Cisco Brewery’s drink menu is a vibrant showcase of craft brewing talent and Nantucket’s rich local flavors. From their flagship Whale’s Tale Pale Ale to inventive seasonal creations and refreshing hard seltzers, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or a casual drinker, Cisco Brewery invites you to explore their diverse offerings and savor the unique tastes of the island. Pair your drink with delicious food, try a flight to sample multiple styles, and immerse yourself in the brewery’s warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Plan your visit today and discover why Cisco Brewery is a beloved destination for beer lovers everywhere.
