Here in New Jersey, our local craft beer scene is a vibrant tapestry of innovation, passion, and community. At Explore New Jersey, we’re always keen to highlight the exciting collaborations and new releases that add unique flavor to our state’s brewing landscape. Recently, our attention has been drawn to a compelling new partnership between New Jersey Craft Beer (NJCB) and Whims Brewing in Atco, culminating in a highly anticipated new beer release that’s generating quite a buzz.
Full disclosure: my personal experience at Whims Brewing last year left me somewhat underwhelmed. The taproom, situated in a strip center, didn’t quite resonate with my preferred brewery atmosphere, and the beers I sampled seemed to lean towards a lighter profile – almost like flavored water – which isn’t typically what I seek in craft beer. The interaction at the counter also didn’t leave a lasting positive impression. However, the world of craft beer is constantly evolving, and breweries frequently refine their craft and expand their offerings. It’s precisely this dynamic nature that makes the latest news from Whims Brewing so intriguing.
A Fresh Chapter: The Dracaena Collaboration
Stepping into a new chapter, Whims Brewing is set to unveil “Dracaena” (pronounced dra-SEE-na), a collaborative brew crafted with none other than NJCB. This partnership signals a potential new direction for Whims, and it’s certainly caught the attention of the New Jersey beer community. Dracaena is described as a modern take on a hoppy black IPA. For those unfamiliar, a Black IPA, sometimes known as a Cascadian Dark Ale, is a fascinating style that defies expectations. It marries the robust, dark appearance and subtle roasted notes typically found in stouts or porters with the assertive hop-forward bitterness and aroma of a traditional IPA. The key is balance: the dark malts provide color and a hint of chocolate or coffee, but the hops – often piney, citrusy, or resinous – remain the star.
This particular iteration, Dracaena, is designed to be a “drinkable mid-range ABV IPA with a slight bite.” Mid-range IPAs typically fall within the 5.5% to 7.5% ABV range, offering a satisfying kick without being overwhelmingly strong, making them approachable for extended enjoyment. The “slight bite” suggests a pleasant hop bitterness or perhaps a subtle roasted characteristic that adds complexity without being harsh. This sounds like a promising evolution for Whims, potentially offering a more assertive flavor profile than what I personally encountered in the past.
The Release Event: Mark Your Calendars!
The official release of Dracaena is scheduled for Friday, July 12, 2025, right at the Whims Brewing location in Atco. This isn’t just a beer release; it’s an all-day event for the local community and craft beer enthusiasts. To add to the celebratory atmosphere, live music will be provided by local artist Jon […] from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, creating the perfect backdrop for sampling this new collaboration.
While my previous experience might make me hesitant to simply purchase a full pour without tasting, the concept of a collaboration with NJCB and the description of a hoppy black IPA certainly pique my curiosity. The possibility of Whims Brewing growing their repertoire and offering bolder, more complex styles is exciting for the broader New Jersey beer scene. Perhaps a small sample or a shared sip would be in order to truly gauge this new direction.
For those eager to dive into the vibrant world of New Jersey’s craft beverage scene, discover new breweries, or find events celebrating the state’s diverse offerings, Explore New Jersey is your go-to guide. You can find more information on local breweries, events, and all things beer and beverages across our incredible state by visiting our comprehensive Beer & Breweries section. Cheers to new explorations in New Jersey’s flourishing craft beer landscape!