Don't worry, we're not going to make you break out your glasses for this. Head here to see the top 32 local beers as voted by you and to cast your vote for the Sweet 16.
Ayyyy, you know what you guys like? Supporting local breweries. You all came in clutch with the nominations for the Ultimate Orlando beer, Orlando! I’ve got at least 40 new ones to add to my list (really more like 12; I don’t do hoppy 🤢).
The selections really run the gamut: We’ve got sours and stouts, pilsners and porters, some hyper-local brews, and a few out-of-towners.
Here’s what you had to say about three of the 32 beers that made the cut, and why they deserve the title of being crowned the (unofficial) ultimate beer of Orlando:
Ellipsis Brewing’s I Citra U Not: “Named after The Citronaut, the first mascot of Florida Technological University, which later became the University of Central Florida. Strong citrus notes that make you think of Central Florida. A healthy (read hefty) 8.7%ABV that's smooth to drink. The Ellipsis Brewery taproom is a great place to hang out. Often has food trucks on the weekend. And the bartenders are always helpful with selecting your brews. — Randy
Orange Blossom Brewing’s City Beautiful IPA: “It is literally named after our city. City Beautiful IPA. The can has an illustration of Lake Eola on it and the tap handle is a light-up Lake Eola!” — Brandy G.
Ivanhoe Park Brewing’s Joyland IPA: “Perfect balance of hoppy and light. Great for sipping on a warm summer night.” — Kenny E.
This time last year, the days of cheering on Orlando City to a win while sipping on a cold brew and eating a hot dog was a memory we weren’t sure when we’d make again. But as more and more people become vaccinated, it’s shaping up to be the perfect time to celebrate the alchemical wizards creating these quaffable creations.
So show some love to your favorite O-town (and beyond) breweries by voting for the beer you crave the most in Pulptown’s Ultimate Orlando Beer Bracket.
As a reminder, this March Madness-style bracket was decided by our readers, for our readers. See a beer you don’t recognize? Add it to your list. Call it a “research project” and use this bracket to try new brews, then tell us which of the 32 should advance to the Sweet 16. OK?
Voting for this round ends at 12 p.m. on Monday, July 5. Cast your vote below by following this link — and share it with a friend, too!
