Thompson Island Brewing releases 1776 hazy IPA

To kick off the summer season, Thompson Island Brewing Company in Rehoboth Beach released 1776, a hazy IPA, just in time for Memorial Day.

A portion of 1776’s four-pack sales will benefit Project Recover, which locates and returns soldiers missing in action since World War II. The initiative was founded by Dr. Mark Moline, a marine biology professor at the University of Delaware’s Lewes campus.

Thompson Island’s brewers learned about Project Recover’s IPAs for MIAs program. “Breweries create a unique beer of their choice to benefit the organization and raise awareness,” said Lauren Bigelow, who oversees the beer program for Thompson Island and its sister brewery, Ocean View Brewing Company.

Bigelow said 100% of the hops in 1776 are American; they include Bru-1, Sabro and El Dorado.

“There are notes of pineapple, peach and coconut — flavors that are perfect for Memorial Day activities,” said Justin Leahy, head brewer.

In addition to 1776, Thompson Island will sell a T-shirt to benefit Project Recover.