The number 7 happens to be my lucky number…well, mine and millions of other people’s too I guess.  But anyway, lots of great things come in 7’s – the number of days in the week, the wonders of the ancient world, and even the number of games in a typical playoff series.  But perhaps most importantly, it is the number of Mad Hatter IPA varieties offered by New Holland Brewing (Original Mad Hatter, Imperial Hatter, Oak Aged Hatter, Rye Hatter, Farmhouse Hatter, Black Hatter, and White Hatter).  So when I found out the Lake Street Tavern in South Lyon would be featuring ALL SEVEN varieties on tap for Hatter Day 2012, I knew it was my destiny to attend.

I started off with the Imperial Hatter double IPA, which features “Bold hop character with lively grapefruit and citrus notes” according to New Holland’s website .  That may be – all I know is that it’s fantastically delicious.

I also got to enjoy a draft version of the Black Hatter, which is my personal favorite.  I am a huge, HUGE fan of black ales and in my opinion, this one is the leader of the pack. 

Finally, I got the opportunity to try the Farmhouse Hatter – the only one of the septet I was unfamiliar with – and it turned out to be one of my favorites.  It reminded me of Founders All-Day IPA, being that it was smooth, flavorful, and on the lighter side.  Farmhouse would be a great one to enjoy on a warm summer afternoon.

If you haven’t yet tried the Hatter family of beers, you owe it to yourself to pick some up – sooner than later.  Each variety is very unique, and VERY delicious.