Savoring Monkish Brewing Co.: A California Craft Beer Journey

# [Hazy IPA/Saison] Complete Guide to Monkish Brewing Co. – A Deep Dive into Torrance’s Refined Craft Beer Destination

Hello there! I’m Riho, a dedicated craft beer enthusiast. Today, I’m excited to share my visit to Monkish Brewing Co. in Torrance, California—a brewery renowned for its exceptional saisons and hazy IPAs. This establishment offers a sophisticated Californian atmosphere coupled with a diverse range of beers that every beer lover should experience.

Monkish Brewing Co. Profile

Founded in 2012 by Henry and Adriana Covarrubias, Monkish Brewing Co. began with Belgian-style ales and has since evolved to become a pioneer in hazy IPAs with global recognition. True to its name, which references monastic brewing traditions, Monkish beautifully blends Belgian beer reverence with American craft innovation to create their signature style.

Brewery Name	Monkish Brewing Co.
Location	Torrance, California
Founded	2012
Signature Styles	Belgian Ales, Hazy IPAs, Saisons
Notable Features	Fusion of Belgian tradition with American hops, barrel aging program
Brewer	Henry Covarrubias

【Beginner’s Guide: Saison】

Saison (pronounced “say-ZOHN”) was traditionally brewed in the Wallonia region of Belgium for seasonal farm workers—hence its name, which means “season.” Historically, these beers were brewed in winter to be consumed during summer harvest. Modern saisons are characterized by their light, dry, spicy, and fruity profiles with moderate alcohol content (5-8%). They offer refreshing lemon and herbal notes combined with complex yeast-derived flavors that make them perfect summer companions. Think of them as the sophisticated, complex cousins of wheat beers, with a distinctly European character.

【Beginner’s Guide: Hazy IPA】

Hazy IPAs, also known as New England IPAs (NEIPAs), are characterized by their cloudy appearance—hazy means misty or foggy. Unlike traditional IPAs with their pronounced bitterness, hazy IPAs emphasize juicy fruit flavors and a softer mouthfeel. They feature an orange juice-like appearance and tropical fruit aromas that make them approachable even for craft beer newcomers. These beers downplay the harsh bitterness that some find challenging in traditional IPAs, replacing it with a smooth, juice-like character that’s helped make them one of contemporary America’s most popular craft beer styles.

The Monkish Brewing Co. Taproom Experience

The brewery offers an expansive, open space where you can enjoy your beer while observing the brewing equipment. The industrial aesthetics balanced with warm wooden elements create a welcoming atmosphere, and the friendly staff ensures everyone—including first-time visitors—can relax and enjoy their experience.

Monkish Brewing Co. Tap List

Monkish Brewing Co. offers an impressive variety of beers ranging from Belgian-style ales to hazy IPAs and imperial stouts. Here’s a breakdown of their offerings by category.

BELGIAN-ish

SONG OF SILENCE	Belgian-ish Blonde ABV: 7.1% Prices: 6oz $5.25, 12oz $8.5, 16oz $9
SUBLIMINAL SEQUEL	Belgian-style tripel ABV: 10.3% Prices: 6oz $6, 12oz $8.5, 16oz $9
FEMINIST	Belgian tripel with hibiscus ABV: 7.5% Prices: 6oz $5.25, 12oz $8.5, 16oz $9
ANOMALY	Dark strong ale ABV: 9% Prices: 6oz $5.25, 12oz $8.5, 16oz $9

HOPPY

WEST COAST CATS & DOGS	West Coast IPA ABV: 7% Prices: 6oz $5.25, 12oz $8.5, 16oz $9
FOGGY WINDOW	DIPA with citra, nelson sauvin ABV: 8.2% Prices: 6oz $5.25, 12oz $8.5
CONSCIENCE BE FREE	DDH IPA with galaxy, nelson sauvin ABV: 7% Prices: 6oz $5.25, 12oz $8.5
BABBLESHIP	DDH DIPA with galaxy & mosaic ABV: 8.5% Prices: 6oz $5.25, 12oz $8.5
SNOW GIANT	TIPA with citra & nectaron ABV: 10.4% Prices: 6oz $6, 12oz $9

【Beginner’s Guide: DIPA/TIPA】

DIPA (Double IPA) and TIPA (Triple IPA) are amped-up versions of regular IPAs with increased hop content and higher alcohol percentages. DIPAs typically range from 7-10% ABV, while TIPAs exceed 10%. They deliver intensified hop flavors and a richer mouthfeel, but well-crafted versions maintain balance despite their high alcohol content. “DDH” stands for “Double Dry Hopped,” indicating that twice the normal amount of hops were added after fermentation to enhance aroma. To use a consumer electronics analogy: if an IPA is a standard model, a DIPA is the premium version, and a TIPA is the professional-grade, top-tier model with all the bells and whistles.

How to Order at Monkish Brewing Co.

At Monkish’s taproom, you’ll place your order directly at the counter. The ordering process is straightforward, even if you’re not a beer aficionado.

The beer names can be unique and sometimes difficult to pronounce. Don’t hesitate to take a photo of the tap list and simply point to what you’d like to try.

Step 1:	Order by saying “Can I have a pint of [beer name]?” (or whatever size you prefer)
Step 2:	When asked “Tab, Open? Close?” decide if you want to pay as you go (Close) or start a tab (Open)
Step 3:	Be prepared to show ID for age verification
Step 4:	Pay with cash, Apple Pay, or credit card
Step 5:	Select a tip amount on the tablet and sign
Step 6:	Pick up your beer from the counter

Don’t be afraid to ask questions like “Do you have any juicy hazy IPAs you’d recommend?” The staff is knowledgeable and happy to guide you through their selection. Many times they’ll offer small samples of beers you’re curious about, which is a great way to find your perfect pour.

Monkish Brewing Co. Beer Reviews

Foggy Window (DIPA with Citra & Nelson Sauvin)

Basic Info

Beer Style	Double IPA (DIPA)
ABV (Alcohol Content)	8.2%
Hops	Citra, Nelson Sauvin
Price	6oz $5.25, 12oz $8.5

Appearance

Pale golden with the characteristic haze of a hazy IPA. When held up to light, it reveals amber highlights. Fine white foam clings to the edge of the glass with impressive retention, leaving delicate lacing as you drink.

Aroma

An intense burst of grapefruit and pineapple hits the nose first, followed by wine-like nuances and subtle muscat grape character from the Nelson Sauvin hops. There’s also a hint of ripe mango and other tropical notes in the background, creating a complex and enticing aromatic profile.

Flavor

The first sip delivers a rich, dark chocolate-like malt texture that provides a solid foundation. Mid-palate brings refreshing citrus notes and juicy pineapple sweetness. The finish is surprisingly dry, with virtually no perception of the 8.2% alcohol—a testament to its impeccable balance. Though easily drinkable, it maintains complexity and depth, exemplifying a perfectly executed DIPA.

Flavor Element	Intensity (1-5)	Character
Bitterness	3/5	Clean grapefruit peel-like bitterness
Sweetness	3/5	Natural sweetness reminiscent of ripe tropical fruits
Acidity	2/5	Mild citrus-like brightness
Body	4/5	Medium-full with satisfying substance
Aroma Intensity	4/5	Vibrant, rich hop aroma

Song of Silence (Belgian-ish Blonde)

Basic Info

Beer Style	Belgian-ish Blonde
ABV (Alcohol Content)	7.1%
Price	6oz $5.25, 12oz $8.5, 16oz $9

Appearance

Brilliantly clear bright golden color characteristic of Belgian blondes. The fine white foam persists admirably, creating lace-like patterns along the glass as you drink.

Aroma

Strong phenolic yeast character (spicy, clove-like qualities) dominates the nose. Banana-like esters blend with subtle pear and white wine fruitiness. The interplay between traditional Belgian yeast aromatics and understated but notable hop presence creates perfect harmony.

Flavor

Upon tasting, a beautiful harmony of hops and phenolic spiciness unfolds with light citrus notes and spice character expanding simultaneously. The mid-palate reveals gentle honey-like sweetness, and the finish glides across the palate with water-like smoothness. The aftertaste is dry with a delicate lingering bitterness, showing virtually no perception of its 7.1% alcohol content. An absolutely delightful, refined drinking experience.

Flavor Element	Intensity (1-5)	Character
Bitterness	2/5	Restrained, herbal-like elegant bitterness
Sweetness	2/5	Gentle honey-like sweetness
Acidity	1/5	Almost imperceptible
Body	2/5	Light-medium with silky smoothness
Aroma Intensity	4/5	Complex, spicy yeast-driven aromatics

Ancient Future 2024

Basic Info

Beer Style	Strong Ale (presumed)
ABV (Alcohol Content)	High (specific percentage not listed)

Appearance

Deep ruby color that reveals coppery highlights when held to light. Remarkably clear with a thin beige head that traces the edge of the glass. Prominent legs (the streaks of liquid that cling to the glass) indicate its high alcohol content.

Aroma

Rich alcohol bouquet hits the nose first, accompanied by abundant dried fruit and raisin-like sweet aromas. Complex notes of caramel, toffee, and oak barrel character mingle to create a deeply layered aromatic profile.

Flavor

The first sip delivers a luscious raisin-like sweetness that fills the mouth. The mid-palate develops with deep caramelized malt richness and complex barrel-derived vanilla and oak flavors. Consistently elegant throughout, the swallow brings a warming alcohol sensation rising from the throat along with a dark chocolate-like impression, concluding with a remarkably dry finish. Despite its high alcohol content, it shows no harshness—only the mellow character that comes from extended aging.

Flavor Element	Intensity (1-5)	Character
Bitterness	3/5	Dark chocolate-like deep bitterness
Sweetness	4/5	Rich dried fruit and caramel sweetness
Acidity	1/5	Nearly imperceptible
Body	5/5	Exceptionally full and rich
Aroma Intensity	5/5	Complex, pronounced aromatics

Monkish Brewing Flavor Characteristics & Overall Assessment

The hallmark of Monkish Brewing Co.’s beers is their remarkable elegance and virtual absence of harsh bitterness or astringency. Even their high-ABV offerings remain approachable while delivering concentrated hop character in their hop-forward styles.

What impressed me most was how they’ve achieved exceptional quality in both Belgian-inspired traditional beers and contemporary American hop-forward styles. Every beer exhibits a clean, crisp finish that leaves you ready for the next sip without palate fatigue.

Those seeking aggressively dank beers (styles emphasizing intense sweetness, heavy roast character, or pronounced malt characteristics) might find Monkish’s refined approach underwhelming. However, for those who appreciate precision and sophistication in their craft beer, this brewery is an absolute must-visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Monkish Brewing Co. welcoming to international visitors?

A: Absolutely. The staff is friendly and helpful. Even if you’re concerned about language barriers, you can easily order by taking a photo of the tap list and pointing to your selection. They accept most major credit cards and digital payment methods.

Q: Can I buy beer to-go?

A: Yes, they offer packaged beer for takeaway. Check the “ENJOY AWAY” section on their menu for available options. Four-packs of their hoppy beers typically range from $18-24, depending on the style.

Q: Do they serve food?

A: The brewery itself doesn’t have a food menu, but food trucks often visit, particularly on weekends. Pizza and light snacks are commonly available. You’re also welcome to bring in food from nearby restaurants.

Q: How does Monkish compare to other LA-area breweries?

A: Within the LA craft beer scene, Monkish stands out for its refined flavors and exceptional quality. Compared to other renowned LA breweries like Highland Park or Modern Times, Monkish particularly excels in Belgian-style beers and hazy IPAs, offering some of the most sophisticated examples of these styles in the region.

Area Information

Location

Nearby Craft Beer Destinations

Just a short distance from Monkish Brewing Co. you’ll find Cellador Ales – Barrel House & Bottle Shop (known for sour beers) and Smog City Brewing Co. About a 15-minute drive away is Three Weavers Brewing Company, making this area an ideal hub for your Southern California brewery tour.

Safety Information

Torrance is considered one of the safer areas in the greater Los Angeles region. The area benefits from active police patrols and community involvement, making it a comfortable environment for both residents and visitors. However, as with any urban area, basic precautions (managing your belongings and being aware of your surroundings) are recommended, especially at night in less trafficked areas and parking lots.

Japanese Brewery Tours

Having lived in Japan until 2024, I’ve documented my journey through Japan’s craft beer scene from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south. My explorations cover everything from brewery-owned taprooms to locally-rooted beer pubs across the country. Discover seasonal limited releases, unique beers showcasing local ingredients, conversations with tōji (master brewers), and deep dives into Japanese craft beer culture through the tag page linked below.

https://rihobeer.com/tag/japan-en/

American Craft Beer Adventures

As a current Seattle resident, I’m documenting my journey through North America’s craft beer scene. From popular Los Angeles breweries to hidden gems in Portland and unique taprooms in Vancouver, I share reports from breweries across the continent. Discover local-only special releases, brewer interviews, and deep dives into North American beer culture through the category page linked below.

https://rihobeer.com/category/beer/brewpub/usa-en

For more about Seattle’s craft beer scene specifically, check this out:

https://rihobeer.com/tag/seattle-en

Monkish Brewing Co. Summary

Monkish Brewing Co.’s taproom offers a tranquil space with friendly staff where you can enjoy a diverse range of beers from Belgian styles to hazy IPAs. What unites all their offerings is “elegance” and “balance,” with their Belgian abbey-style ales and hazy IPAs ranking among the world’s finest examples of these styles.

With several other breweries in the vicinity, this location serves as an essential stop for experiencing California’s craft beer scene. From craft beer newcomers to seasoned enthusiasts, Monkish’s diverse lineup and relaxed atmosphere make it appealing to beer lovers of all experience levels.