Pipeworks Not Far From the Tree 4Pk

Pipeworks Not Far From the Tree 4Pk is an apple-themed fruit ale from Chicago's Pipeworks Brewing Company, sold as a 4-pack of cans. As a limited-catalog release from one of Chicago's most inventive small-batch breweries, this expression leans into the orchard-inspired character its name suggests.

Quick Facts: Style: Fruit Ale  |  Origin: Chicago, Illinois  |  Format: 4-Pack Cans  |  Brewery: Pipeworks Brewing Company

Production & Heritage

Pipeworks Brewing Company was founded in 2012 by a pair of homebrewers in Chicago, Illinois, and quickly gained a reputation for boundary-pushing, small-batch beers spanning IPAs, stouts, lagers, and fruit-forward ales. The brewery operates out of its facility on the city's northwest side, with a taproom known as The Dojo located at 3912 W. McLean Ave. Not Far From the Tree fits within the brewery's tradition of playful, concept-driven releases, with its name — a nod to the proverb "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree" — signaling a pronounced apple influence in the brew's character.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Expect orchard fruit on the nose, with fresh apple leading the way. Light bready malt and a hint of natural sweetness round out the aromatics.

Taste: The palate follows through on the apple theme, with crisp fruit flavor arriving at the entry and a clean, lightly tart mid-palate. Subtle grain character provides balance, keeping the sweetness in check without drying things out entirely.

Finish: The finish is relatively clean and moderate in length, with lingering apple skin and mild acidity. It invites another sip rather than demanding contemplation.

How to Drink Not Far From the Tree

This ale drinks best chilled, straight from the can or poured into a tulip glass to concentrate its fruit aromatics. It is a sessionable, approachable beer on its own, but also plays well in low-ABV beer cocktails:

• Shandy: Mix with fresh lemonade — the apple notes complement citrus without clashing.
• Snakebite: Blend half-and-half with dry cider to amplify the orchard character.
• Radler: Pair with grapefruit soda for a refreshing warm-weather serve that highlights the beer's fruit-forward profile.

Best For

• Sharing with friends who enjoy fruit-forward craft beer but find sours too intense
• Warm-weather cookouts and outdoor gatherings where drinkability matters
• Introducing someone to Chicago's independent craft beer scene
• Adding variety to a curated beer night alongside hop-heavy or malt-driven selections

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Not Far From the Tree taste like? This fruit ale delivers a clean, apple-driven flavor profile with light malt sweetness and mild tartness, making it refreshing and easy to drink.

How does Not Far From the Tree compare to Pipeworks Ninja vs Unicorn? Ninja vs Unicorn is a bold, hop-forward Double IPA clocking in at high ABV, while Not Far From the Tree takes a lighter, fruit-centered approach — they occupy very different corners of the Pipeworks lineup.

Is Not Far From the Tree good for craft beer beginners? Yes — its fruit-forward profile and approachable body make it a natural entry point for drinkers who find heavily hopped or barrel-aged beers overwhelming.

Where is Not Far From the Tree made? It is brewed by Pipeworks Brewing Company in Chicago, Illinois, a small-batch brewery founded in 2012 on the city's northwest side.

What foods pair well with Not Far From the Tree? Pork dishes like pulled pork or chops benefit from the apple complement. Sharp cheddar echoes the beer's mild tartness. A simple arugula salad with walnuts and apple slices creates a harmonious pairing. Mild fish tacos with slaw work well against the beer's crisp, fruity backbone.

What sizes does Not Far From the Tree come in? It is available as a 4-pack of cans, which is the standard retail format for this release.

Is Not Far From the Tree worth the price? It positions as a mid-range craft 4-pack from a respected independent Chicago brewery, offering solid value for fans of fruit ales and those looking to explore Pipeworks' diverse catalog beyond their flagship IPAs.

Why Not Far From the Tree?

Pipeworks Brewing has earned its reputation through relentless experimentation and small-batch quality since 2012, and Not Far From the Tree reflects that ethos — a focused, fruit-driven concept executed with restraint. The apple-themed profile distinguishes it from the hop-centric releases that dominate many craft lineups, offering a different lane for drinkers seeking variety. For anyone drawn to Chicago's independent brewing culture or simply looking for an accessible, orchard-inspired ale, this 4-pack delivers a distinctive package from a brewery that rarely plays it safe.