When we talk about the American craft beer revolution, names like Sierra Nevada and Sam Adams often come to mind. But closer to the East Coast, specifically in New Jersey, one brewery stands out as a true pioneer, paving the way for hundreds that followed: Flying Fish Brewing Co. For those who enjoy a quality brew, Flying Fish is more than just a local legend—it’s a masterclass in balance, consistency, and regional pride.
If you’ve ever enjoyed a locally brewed pint in the Garden State, you owe a debt of gratitude to this brewery. They weren’t just making beer; they were forging a path. Ready to dive deep into the history, the famous Exit Series, and the essential brews that define this iconic brand? Let’s explore why Flying Fish remains a crucial fixture in the modern craft landscape.
The Legacy of Flying Fish: Brewing History & Innovation
Flying Fish Brewing Company began its journey in 1995, long before craft beer was a common sight in every supermarket. Founder Gene Muller started the operation initially as a virtual brewery before settling into their physical location in Cherry Hill, and later moving to a larger, state-of-the-art facility in Somerdale, NJ. This move solidified their commitment to growth and quality control.
What set Flying Fish apart early on was their dedication to classic European styles combined with an American twist. They didn’t chase fleeting trends; they established robust, reliable beers that appealed to both traditionalists and those seeking something new. This foundation of quality allowed them to grow their reputation organically, one exceptional pint at a time.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Beyond the mash tun, Flying Fish is also recognized for its dedication to sustainable brewing practices. Their Somerdale facility was designed with efficiency in mind, incorporating features like solar tubes and a comprehensive water treatment system. For the environmentally conscious drinker, choosing Flying Fish is choosing a brewery that values the planet as much as the product.
Navigating the Core Lineup: Must-Try Flying Fish Beers
While Flying Fish consistently innovates with seasonal and limited releases, their core lineup provides the perfect entry point for any beer drinker. These are the brews that built their reputation:
- Exit 4 American Tripel (The Gateway): While part of the famous series (more on that below), this has become a staple. Brewed with local honey, it’s deceptively strong yet incredibly smooth and approachable, offering notes of spice, fruit, and a warming finish.
- XPA (Extra Pale Ale): A refreshing, balanced American Pale Ale. It strikes the perfect equilibrium between hoppy bitterness and malty sweetness, making it a reliable choice for any occasion.
- Flying Fish IPA: This isn’t a hazy juice bomb; it’s a West Coast-inspired classic. Expect assertive hop character, piney aromas, and a clean, dry finish. It showcases how a well-executed traditional IPA can stand the test of time.
- Abbey Dubbel: A tribute to Belgian tradition, this darker beer offers complex flavors of dark fruit, caramel, and subtle fermentation spice. It’s rich without being heavy—a great choice for colder months or dessert pairing.
Understanding the craft and quality that goes into these foundational brews is essential for any enthusiast. If you find yourself inspired by the careful balance Flying Fish achieves, you might be interested in exploring the complex process of making beer yourself.
The Famous Exit Series: A Tribute to the Garden State
Perhaps the most defining and conversation-starting element of Flying Fish’s portfolio is their ‘Exit Series.’ New Jersey is famous (or infamous) for the New Jersey Turnpike, where exits serve as key geographical markers. Flying Fish brilliantly leveraged this unique aspect of local culture to create a series of rotating, boundary-pushing seasonal beers, each named after a Turnpike exit.
This series demonstrates their marketing prowess and their commitment to regional identity. Each Exit beer is unique, often celebrating a specific style or ingredient associated with the corresponding region:
- Exit 1 (Pilsner): Crisp, clean, and often released for spring/summer drinking.
- Exit 16 (DIPA): A bold, high-ABV Double IPA, reflecting the intensity of the metropolitan area it represents.
- Exit 117 (Session Ale/Golden Lager): Often lighter and extremely sessionable, perfect for shore relaxation.
The Exit Series encourages drinkers to explore new styles and adds a fun, regional twist to every release. It’s a perfect example of how breweries can turn local geography into a global conversation starter.
From Tank to Tap: Ensuring Quality and Availability
The logistics of moving high-quality craft beer from the brewery floor to your glass are complex. Flying Fish has excelled not only in brewing but also in distribution, ensuring their product reaches a wide audience while maintaining freshness—a critical factor for quality beer.
As the market continues to globalize, independent breweries face new challenges in getting their unique products to consumers outside their immediate region. Platforms and marketplaces are essential tools for broadening reach and efficiency. If you are involved in the distribution side or simply want to know where to find the best brews, you should know that many breweries choose to Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer, helping enthusiasts worldwide discover regional gems like Flying Fish.
How to Enjoy Flying Fish Beer Like a Professional
To truly appreciate the nuance of Flying Fish’s diverse portfolio, consider these actionable steps:
- Focus on Freshness: While some darker beers age well, most Flying Fish offerings, especially the IPAs and Pale Ales, are best enjoyed within 90 days of bottling. Check the date codes!
- Pairing with Local Flavors: Try pairing the Exit 4 Tripel with classic Jersey Shore seafood, or match the robust Abbey Dubbel with a hearty pork dish or aged cheddar.
- Glassware Matters: Use a nonic pint glass for the XPA to capture its hop aroma, or a tulip glass for the Exit 4 to concentrate the complex Belgian yeast notes.
The continuous innovation shown by Flying Fish, especially with their limited releases, highlights the value of experimentation in the brewing industry. If this level of detailed, specialty brewing appeals to you, perhaps your business could benefit from exploring custom beer projects designed to capture unique market niches.
Flying Fish Beer FAQs: Quick Answers for Enthusiasts
Q: Is Flying Fish still independent?
A: Yes, Flying Fish Brewing Co. maintains a strong independent presence, allowing them to remain agile and focused on quality over mass-market trends.
Q: Where is the best place to visit the brewery?
A: The Flying Fish tasting room in Somerdale, NJ, offers a great experience, featuring their core beers, seasonal releases, and often unique tasting room-only brews.
Q: Which Flying Fish beer is the strongest?
A: Their strongest offerings often come from the rotating Exit Series or special limited releases. Always check the label, but high-ABV options like the Exit 16 DIPA typically top the charts.
Conclusion: Toasting a Craft Beer Pioneer
Flying Fish Brewing Co. isn’t just a survivor of the early craft boom; it’s a living testament to quality, innovation, and regional pride. By consistently delivering exceptional core beers and captivating drinkers with the clever, delicious Exit Series, they have earned their place among the elite craft brewers on the East Coast.
Next time you are seeking a truly balanced, high-quality, and history-rich brew, look no further than the iconic fish logo. Pick up an XPA or take a detour through the Turnpike with the latest Exit release. Explore their world, support the pioneers, and savor the history in every sip.
