Brew Detective: Fresh Hops / 2020

OR Fresh Hopped Beers / O-R they?

Brew Detective | Fresh Hop Eliot IPA | Ex Novo 

    I believe Goschie Farms provided the Centennial Hops for this particular Eliot, which was canned on 08.31.20. The first thing I noticed was a wet, dank, earthy presence up front in the nose, which I enjoy. A doughy head formed. Surprisingly, the first good gulp showcased subtlety I didn't expect. Carbonation playfully added to the somewhat clear ale. Well placed notes of bitterness hit early, then eased off while still providing finishing flavor. 

Fresh Hop Eliot went down with ease (6.6%). This delicious beer pairs well with Little Creatures, by The Talking Heads. Ex Novo is one of my faves, and in my hood. Sorry for the hiatus. Hope you dig the tasting notes...

Brew Detective | Fresh IPA | Fort George 

    Strata Hops are front and center on this wet hopped and unfiltered IPA from Fort George, perhaps my favorite Oregon brewery. The can created a good 'popping' sound and a tropical nose pushed itself out. Guava and late summer blooms blended with the warm air. The clarity is crazy, an awesome cap of foam insulates the wood and pine aromas. Slight trickles of carbonation stream upward, this beer pours great.    

More bitterness is present in the tasting than the nose suggests, plus I smell a damp forest, and I like it. This fresh hop IPA was canned on 09.08.20 and registered in at 6.4%. Most of these tasting notes were hand written in a journal during the Oregon fires of 2020. Sorry for the late takes.

Brew Detective | Green Keeper | Little Beast 

    A crushable, fresh hopped American pale ale, thanks Little Beast. The smell of rained on veggies filled my snout. Once poured I noticed a much lighter hue than the aromas had crafted images of. It looks unlike any pale ale I've seen. The Centennial Hops offer some funkier aromas once poured. Clarity is almost pilsner-like as a fluffy head forms atop the ale. Crispness wins out, but there is a slight bitterness late. This was unique at 5.2% and approachable for those looking for a change of pace.

I'll be sleuthing craft suds a bit more regularly, with some additional fresh hop reviews too, as I sprinkle in some music along the way. Enjoy the seasonal transition as changes occur, fall has arrived in the PNW. Change is on the horizon in more ways than one. Be safe out there and try to be kind (it can be hard sometimes). Thanks for checking in. Consume craft beer responsibly. 

Cheers,

80choices

Big Barrel of... | Brew Detective Best of 2020

Jackie Treehorn Presents:

The pandemic, police killing minorities, social unrest and protests, increased homelessness, the closure of far too many small businesses, and catastrophic fires along the west coast, were all tossed into one big barrel of WTF, better known as Portland, Oregon. To hell with an emotional state. My mind feels as though it's been overwritten. Things look fucked because they are. Time feels off, askew, now is a time for reflection, an opportunity to reconsider. 

Let's look inward to ensure a more positive direction moving forward. If we take action, if we prove that we care about one another, about the natural world, we will reap a more fruitful benefit. There's only one spaceship fit to fly us around the sun. We've been mistreating Mother Earth for far too long. Future generations are being dealt drastic doses of environmental deterioration. Reactive policies, tactics, and practices, have never been good enough. We have to do better.

Nature continues on, complete and perfect in its organic chaos, despite human influence. Time will not stop for us. We can make changes to give us new chances. There is so much to consider and I'm sorry if this was too sermon-like. I often use this platform as more of a digital journal, so as always, thanks for checking in. If you're still reading, hopefully my rambling reinforces the idea of, Do the Right Thing. Below is the positivity portion of this post. 

Buoy

I've assembled, for the first time in many moons, the best of Brew Detective. The list below showcases my favorite beers of 2020. Most selections were new beers released this calendar year, others were new to me. Having a tasty craft beer is one of life's pleasures — tastebuds need love too. Let's promote good energy through the rest of the year and beyond. Hopefully autumn feels kind, be safe out there. Enjoy these libations responsibly.

Best of Brew Detective | 2020

Dynamic Duo IPA | Ex Novo

Fanzine IPA | Fort George

Maiden West IPA | Little Beast

Eureka Pale Ale | Buoy

Panacea Pale Ale | Ex Novo

Pliny the Younger | Russian River

Jealous Butcher: Side A Pilsner | Fort George & Von Ebert

Farmers Annuary | Fort George \ Crosby Hops

Fields of Green | Fort George  \ Coleman Farms Citra Hops (canned: 9.25.20) \ 7.6% 

Shout-out to: Amalgamator IPA | BeachWood & Space Danger IPA | Fremont

Pale Ale | Beachcrest Brewing Co. 

Cheers, 

80choices

Brew Detective | From Astoria With Love

From Astoria with love, a place where happy can be had. No really, Astoria's awesome, don't tell anyone as the world gets hotter and dryer. Before tragic fires had engulfed the west coast in a haze of scorched earth, we booked a physically distant reservation outdoors in the sun with a shade structure.

Remember the sun? Clear Skies? Or just taking a big breath of fresh air? Our memories do, but I'm sure as shit longing for some outdoor time. Hopefully the heroic fire fighters can combat the destruction, and perhaps Mother Earth and Her climate we lend their aid. This time around I'm becoming more changed, almost too hyper aware. The west is ablaze and there's no going back. Perhaps for me as well. Below I'll reminisce about lighter times, different times.

Our late lunch was tasty. First up was mixed garden greens and veg, before moving on to wood fired pizza and another pint. We finished with a glorious slice of carrot cake, oh the cream cheese frosting. Way to go Fort George. Our early evening Pilsners along the river at Buoy were assisted by a friendly marine mammal. The frequent visits were so cool, as was the personality of this amazing sea lion. I'm super thankful for this day. Now to the beers... 

Fort George
Jealous Butcher - Side A - Pilsner - 4.5%

Their new "45 Series" aims to spotlight local musicians, while also assisting local vinyl pressing plants. Awesome! Seriously. I was all in on this idea, not-to-mention doing the same beer twice, but different — Side A and the B side. Both offerings were brewed in 45BBl fermenters. As unfiltered Germanic Pilsners go, this was boss. Brewed in collaboration with Von Ebert Brewing and Jealous Butcher Records in Portland, the Jealous Butcher Pilsner was not playing around. Of course I scored a four pack and a 45.

Jealous Butcher - Side B - Pilsner - 4.5%

The B side is a different version of the aforementioned Side A. This Jealous Butcher was dry hopped with Simcoe and Citra hops. The added spice was nice, real nice, but I'm gonna keep dropping the needle on Side A. By the way, Califone playing "Crazy as a Loon" is also boss. Who doesn't like John Prine songs? Side A wins on both accounts.

Song Bird - Sour Blonde - 6.5%

I wanted Song Bird on draft rather than out of the bottle. This sour blonde is brewed in collaboration with Alesong Brewing. Agent M's initial reaction, "real tart." This mixed culture blonde was conditioned on a thousand pounds of peaches and aged in wine barrels for 7 months. Timely to say the least. I was glad I was able to enjoy it fresh from the source.

Sunrise - OPA - 5.2%

Some seriously herbaceous vibes were emanating from this pale ale. The bitterness, which was almost resinous, sacrificed some of the traditional smoothness other pale ales possess. Sunrise OPA is based on the first beer ever brewed at Fort George, pretty cool.

Buoy
Czech Pils - 6.2% | 35 IBU

A classic take on a standard, Buoy's Czech-style Pilsner never disappoints, especially in person along the Columbia. Saaz hops bring this beer to life. Clarity is unmistakeable, so too is the beauty of the surrounding nature. It's best to enjoy beer while allowing oneself to soak it in, to not be in a hurry. Thanks for checking in. I hope everyone's being safe, sensible and kind. Do the right thing.

Cheers,

80choices

Brew Detective | Beachwood | Amalgamator IPA

The name may be a mouthful but the proof is in there. Beechwood's Amalgamator is an IPA for those of us who want transparency in body. The blending of ingredients inside of this ale, is an artistic path to the notes we smell and taste. Doughy foam sits noticeably atop the ale. Carbonation is initially hidden, but apparent in mouth feel. Earthy garden vibes are at the forefront of tasting, reminiscent of leafy greens. Amalgamator IPA is light enough to crush and refreshing, a great summer beer. I recommend picking some up if given the opportunity. Enjoy craft beer responsibly.

Note:
This post was written before the disastrous fires were raging along the west coast. As a Pacific resident my heart aches. I'm saddened and nervous. Thoughts and blessings to all who are dealing with these catastrophic events. Human induced climate change has to be taken seriously. So too does our collective interaction with Mother Earth and our treatment of the natural world. She doesn't need us, but we sure as shit need Her. A global pandemic, social and civil unrest (everywhere, but especially in Portland), and the most destructive fires perhaps of all time, are an almost fictional narrative of an impending apocalypse. This 2020 layer cake of stress is very real and it has me thinking about a lot of things. Be KIND and Stay Safe!

Do The Right Thing (Spike Lee),

80choices

Brew Detective | Saul Fruitman | Ex Novo

Saul Fruitman is a Hazy IPA moseying in from Corrales, New Mexico. Fruitman's in cahoots with the good people over at Ex Novo, who happen to have a watering hole in the southwest as well. This tall drink is brewed with Citra and Vic Secret hops, pineapple and mango was added for good measure. 

The liquid straw yeller ale smelled of pineapple fruit juice, go reckon. Even though this oat soda is hazy, it somehow carries a light body. Flavor profiles were more muted than expected considering the aroma. Also, it's not too fruity, which I liked. Saul was a good diversion from my usual go-to. Thanks Ex Novo. Drink craft suds respectfully. 

Cheers,
80choices

Brew Detective | Hen House | Stoked

I'm saddened to know what's happening in County Paradiso, as well as the surrounding counties I know and love. We know first hand the havoc being wrought. Big thoughts and much love goes out to all of California as it again deals with raging wild fires. The entire state is in flames. My heart is heavy and I will write this quick review as a reminder to the people, places and beauty that I love. I give my thoughts to the mastery and bravery of Cal Fire as they combat this breathing monster. I hope they remain safe as they pursue the safety of others. I love you California.

Hen House | Stoked | Single Hop Pale Ale

Some of the tastiest beer in Sonoma County is brewed by Hen House. Centennial Hops were used to brew this delicious pale ale. The pale, murky-yellow ale has a strong nose. Good carbonation and a lasting head combine to enhance aromas of hops and malt.  Taste and aromatics match up well. I was Stoked to score a four pack from a local bottle shop here in PDX. I hadn't seen a Hen House can in a minute. It made me nostalgic. I was glad to grab some. Now I'm just hoping for the best, for one of the best places on earth. Be safe California.

drink craft beer responsibly,

80choices.

Born at the Beach

Pelican Brewing was born at the beach. Tasty beer and outlandish scenery await those fortunate enough to frequent Pacific City. A sandy beach, Cape Kiwanda, tame sets of waves, coastal breeze and warm sun, all triggering the senses as the day drifts away. A different level of ease washes over me at the ocean. It's the type of setting that allows my mind freedom, somehow affording me the chance to not be consumed by all that is going on. I actually decompress and feel unencumbered by thoughts.

On a recent voyage to the ocean, celebrating another trip around the sun, I remembered why I love the Pacific coast so much. It changes me, influencing me in ways I wish were more the norm. Pelican was merely a variable in the equation for what it was I was trying to obtain; relaxation and the ability to calm my mind. The unquestionable supremacy of nature is wonderful and constant, reminding us we're part of something bigger.

A huge thanks to the person who loves me the most. Sometimes I forget how lucky I am. Hello four oh — Yikes! Any reason to be at the beach is a good one. After enjoying the Pacific it was time to knock back some cold-ones. My first pint was the summery and crushable Updrift IPA. Illuminated by the sun, the hay-yellow body held brilliant color. A noticeable yet light head covering the top was aided by carbonation that had been dialed-in just right. Updrift IPA is a worthy summer beer.

Pelicano Extra Lager is a Mexican-style cerveza with eye-catching clarity. This ale is a summer's best contender. Bubbles stream continuously as wafts of Germanic lager mix with aromas often associated with Mexican lagers. Great beers are the ones you never tire of, those that you can have more than one of. Pelicano hits that sweet spot.

Next up was Our Dankest Hour IPA, which was being brewed again now that patrons could enjoy it. Originally brewed in March, this IPA is not playing around. Dank is in the name, but resinous is its game. The bold amber glow doesn't hide the punch this beer packs. Malt be damned, too many of these and your afternoon or early evening is askew. Strong color and a lingering head cannot mask the bold aromas and flavor. Think of Our Dankest Hour as a big fish story, fun to tell, just not all the time. Enjoy craft beer responsibly with fish and chips. 

Cheers,
80choices

Brew Detective: Returning to the Fold | Ex Novo

Ex Novo is a ritual at this point, they're my go-to, thanks Ex Novo. On my last visit to Flint Street they rewarded me with a newly canned single hop hazy IPA, sorry that was a mouthful. Anyhow, this hazy was good, better than most of the hazy's out there. I prefer west coast-style IPA's, but this offering was a nice surprise. Nelson hops run alone in Returning to the Fold.

Muted guava moves across the nose as quality carbonation feeds the doughy head, lasting longer than is typical. The mouthfeel was earthy yet light enough to gulp. Dank golden hues illuminated the glass. Aromas opened into notes of early orchard blooms. Returning to the Fold (7.2%) is a single hop IPA originally canned on 06.16.20, I enjoyed mine a few days later. Drink craft beer respectfully.

Cheers,
80choices

Brew Detective: ALL TOGETHER | Ex Novo

I find great solace in the care, craft and kindness exhibited by the good people at Ex Novo, who routinely achieve no matter the obstacle. I will remain loyal to them for as long as we can coexist. The worst year ever is causing now, more than ever, to be a crucial time to support local businesses. I reward myself with tasty libations. That's where Ex Novo comes in.

ALL TOGETHER is an IPA reg'n at 6.5% — the best thing about buying ALL TOGETHER is that the money from sales goes to staff. Awesome. Because the people at Ex Novo are good people. I'm so thankful to share a neighborhood with them. 

A mix of bitterness and pineapple juice swirled as I popped open a pint. Substantial head forms over the opaque juice-like ale, there's an almost green tint to the glow. The mouth feel was much lighter than expected, it assuaged some of the bitterness which resurfaces late in tasting. Fruit characteristics that were present early faded once poured. Visible carbonation helps to move the nectar. Support local brewers if you're able to. Enjoy craft beer respectfully.

80choices

Brew Detective: Cult Classic Pale Ale | Ex Novo

Hollywood theatre is, er was, and will be again, the place to observe cinema in all it's splendor and excess. Ex Novo has brewed Cult Classic Pale Ale for Hollywood theatre much prior to this review, but recently I scored a four pack of pint cans, which supports both my favorite brewery and the best cinematic palace this side of the Williamette (honorable mention Bagdad Theater). Hopefully we'll get to satiate our souls through the small joys of interactive and participatory arts and activities.

Strong hop aroma is a bit biting and spicy. Beautiful amounts of carbonation drive upward, replenishing the fluffy head. Subtle bitterness is apparent early. The amber-gold pale ale glimmers with agricultural bounty. It's liquid art in honor of "Movie Madness." Rated 5.6% / Cult Classic Pale Ale is an easy choice indoors or out. Enjoy craft beer respectfully.

80choices

Brew Detective: Volatile Substance | Von Ebert

Another Portland brewery doing their best to maintain business during such otherworldly times is Von Ebert, makers of tasty beer. My Partner in crime swooped in for curbside pickup. Our order included fried chicken and potatoes, a bottle of Bouquet Blanc (review coming when I crack that rarity), and a four pack of Volatile Substance. It's nice to remember how lucky I am.

Volatile Substance is a NW IPA brewed with Mosaic and Simcoe hops (65 IBU | 6.9%). Prior to scoring these pint cans I'd only had it on draught. The can experience does not disappoint. As is our routine when the weather's nice Agent M and I took an extended neighborhood walk. We sipped a Volatile Substance while admiring the tree lined streets and beautiful homes.

Good bounce occurred when cracking open the pint. Notes of pineapple and grapefruit hit early and disappear from there. This IPA has some bite to it. Agent M noted that it was bitter and tingly, not for beginners. She also mentioned piney characteristics, hoppy and strong. I couldn't be more proud and stoked to take walks with someone.

Be safe during this time of physical distancing and try to support local businesses whenever possible. Keep on keeping on. Enjoy independent beer responsibly.

80choices

Brew Detective: Ex Novo | Panacea Pale

Ex Novo has us Jones'n for fresh cans. My partner in crime and I have been stoked on the heady releases we're able to still enjoy while physically distancing. Hitting up Ex Novo for Detroit-style pizza and some oat sodas is rewarding. We're all about the delicious Panacea Pale Ale (6%). Recently we enjoyed a cold pint and recorded our tasting notes at the community garden as we strolled with the sun as our guide. 

A bubbly carnival with light fruity indulgence kicked off Agent M's senses. She noted how drinkable it was without being too hoppy. "Delicious" and "new spring favorite," high praise from a formidable beer fan.

Whiffs of apricot and subtle malt hit my nose first. Good foam rises to the top creating lasting legs drink after drink. A slipperiness mingles with the effervescent body. Slight bitterness registers late in tasting, however it's absent in the aroma. Panacea Pale Ale goes beyond taste, it involves all of your senses.

This single hop pale ale is brewed with HBC 692, an experimental hop that the brewer calls, "pretty awesome." I'd have to agree, this beer is too legit to quit. Ex Novo will deliver craft beer to your door if you live in Portland, how cool is that? We could all use some good libations. Support local brewers during these difficult times if possible. Helping independent businesses is more important than ever. Enjoy craft beer respectfully.

Be safe,
80choices

Dynamic Duo | Ex Novo

Ex Novo is adapting during these crazy times. I'm thankful to neighbor such a business, keep on keep'n on. Independent businesses make Portland cool and I'm pulling for you. We support our local brewers, comic shop, and of course grocer, as much as is reasonable. We recently walked home with Ex Novo's  Perle Haggard Pils and Dynamic Duo, an imperial IPA (7.6%).

First of all the artwork is awesome. Freshness pops as you crack open a pint. Warm weather fruit pushes through to create aromas of nectarine and mango, carbonation races upward. The clarity is next level, showing off its soft golden hues. I like the interaction between smell and taste; contrasting traits work to enhance the senses. Bitterness is noticeable but well rounded, reminiscent of Pliny.

If you live in Portland and are interested in supporting Ex Novo, they're open for business and also deliver! It doesn't get much better than that considering what we're all going through. Enjoy craft beer responsibly.

Be safe,

80choices

Confluence Lite IPA | Baerlic & Fort George

To celebrate the anniversaries of Bridge & Tunnel and Bridgetown Beerhouse, two area taprooms/bottle shops, Baerlic Brewing and Fort George collaborated to create Confluence Lite IPA. Brewed with Comet, El Dorado and Sultana hops this unique offering registers in at 4.6%. Portland and Astoria are sharing the the love with this beer.

Soft fruity notes liven your nose before a hoppy bitterness is revealed. These subtleties make it very drinkable, hence the Lite. Slight murkiness dances in an otherwise transparent body as bubbly action triggers a noticeable effervescence. If able to, try and support local breweries during this challenging time. If you live in the PNW, might I recommend Confluence Lite IPA. Enjoy craft beer responsibly.

Be well, 

80choices

Brew Detective: Astoria

On March 7th the world felt different. Maybe because it was. I'm glad we took the opportunity to enjoy Astoria. The Norblad supplied us with some much needed R&R. Our corner room captured beautiful light, dappling the cozy apartment-like setting. Minimalism and comfort softly drapes the energy of where you are over you. The Norblad is also located across the street from Fort George's barreling and bottling warehouse. Did I mention how much I dig Astoria?

We settled in at Buoy Beer Co., lucking in to the best window seat. Sunlight was beaming through big puffy clouds. Marine life casting energetic sounds into the air.

Possessing traits of bitterness and slightly resinous, my first pint was brewed solely with Eureka hops. A light amber hue lit the glass. Damn it was good.

My partner in crime had the Growler Guys IPA (6.6% | 58IBU) — a local taproom collaboration. This flashlight yellow ale resembled the outer edges of a daffodil. Its summery nose accentuated by a bubbly finish; unlike any IPA I've tasted. A collection of hops were generously used during the boil and again in dry hopping. After fermentation an array of citrus was added, melding with the hop profiles. I'm not exactly sure how to describe it, but I liked it. Craft beer pairs superbly with fresh fish and chips.

With our appetites satiated we reconvened at The Norblad for a little NBA and some BIG napping. The Blazers were still playing at the start of March. Damn I miss basketball. After powering up on rest and round-ball we moved through the cool, moist night over to Fort George. I fancy being at one of my favorite breweries.

I started with a Fanzine IPA (6.7%). This delicious nectar had recently hit shelves in PDX, but I'd been waiting to get it fresh from the source. As soon as you smell this IPA you want to drink it. Awesome aroma pushes through a cloud-like head. Below lies a crisp ale with resounding clarity. 

First course: corn and potato chowder with chicken and bacon, locally sourced, with a side of focaccia. A tasty combo for sure. As the slow night drifted along we devoured deliciousness. M had the rock fish sandwich with jalapeño jam and a mixed green salad. I went total glutton and took down the Fort George burger with Tillamook cheddar and a side of pickled garden vegetables. The pickled cauliflower in particular was amazing. 

We closed the night by spiraling upstairs to take down our favorite cast iron, chocolate chip cookie with vanilla bean ice cream and whipped cream. This dessert is a must have. The up-stairs portion of Fort George serves an entirely different menu focused on their brick oven. I washed down the baked goodness with a 12oz. Positive Contact IPA (7.4%).

The cool night turned cold as we breathed in a mixture of river and sea air. After a brisk walk we ambled to our room, ready to swallow us in until morning. We nestled in to a warm and inviting bed. Morning slowly unwound, eventually landing us in Street 14 Café down the block. Post brunch we scored a woven basket at Chariot Home and M grabbed up a Zine from Short Wave. Later we stocked up at Fort George and Blue Scorcher Bakery. We had an adventure in mind.

Making our way across the Columbia to explore various hamlets along the southern Washington coast was a great diversion. There were some pretty cute hideouts. As we drove back through Astoria we made sure to support Astoria Co-op, which is in an awesome new building on the east side of town. With fresh made burritos and munchies we made our way home, relishing in a wonderful weekend getaway.

Cheers to the good times,

80choices

Pliny the Younger | 2020 | Apex

February 15th ...

My second straight year sipping Pliny the Younger in Portland was much like the first; no lines, bring your own food, just an average Saturday at Apex. Sounds nice doesn't it? Because it was. We munched sandos while leisurely enjoying the elusive Younger — later migrating to Blind Pig.

Younger 2020 produced subtle aromas and a bit more fruit in the initial taste. It was by no means too fruity. Added bitterness won out as tasting continued. This Younger really announced its freshness. A thin yet substantial foam lifted to a head in this super clean IPA.

Deli Sandwiches, kettle chips, dill pickle spears, Blind Pig and Pliny the Younger makes for a good Saturday luncheon. We enjoyed our local, hassle-free pilgrimage for Younger. Hopefully you did too.

Cheers,
80choices

Maiden West IPA | Little Beast Brewing

Little Beast Brewing creatively crafts beer — fruited sours, barrel aged ales, and west coast IPA's are some of the elixirs you can expect. Certain offerings are available in single bottles, while select others can be found in four packs. I recommend hanging out in their (hopefully sun-soaked) yard on SE Division with a fresh pint.

The delicious Maiden West is beautifully done in the spirit of west coast IPA's. Early aromas lean toward white peach and yellow nectarine. Carbonation moves about with glowing clarity. Those notes of stone fruit fade into pleasant bitterness. Contrast in smell and taste can really add to the complexity of an IPA. Maiden West accomplishes this in both a surprising and respectful way; nothing seems out of the ordinary, ingredients and methodology work in tandem to achieve such distinct aromas, flavor and nuance. Little Beast crafts with care in order to create quality beer. Enjoy responsibly.

Cheers,

80choices

Space Danger

Danger, danger, danger Will Robinson. Er, I mean, Space Danger, a real west coast IPA. This beer is not a hazy juice bomb, thank you Fremont Brewing. A great interplay takes place between the hops and malt in this fantastic beer. The malt helps to produce a fluffy head as bubbles loft upward from perfected carbonation. Space Danger is so clean and transparent. If you see this beer, buy it.

Space Danger livens my taste buds like fresh garden greens, think escarole, arugula, even parsley. Those notes of bitterness meld perfectly with malted barley. Space Danger's complexity gives it an actually voice against the muted homogeneity of hazy IPA's. Another tasting note worth mentioning is that of moist tree bark. Mirabelle Plum comes to mind. If you've ever pruned that particular tree you know exactly what I'm talking about. I could smell that one-of-a-kind smell when I wrote this. This ale is a new favorite of mine. I will gladly seek it out between now and April 1st. 

Space Danger is one of the best IPA's I've had in quite some time. It's truly memorable. Hops include Centennial, Simcoe, and Sabro. The grain bill consists of 2-row pale malt, rolled oats, and white wheat. Find this IPA and drink it responsibly. 

Space Danger IPA | 7% | 61 IBU

Cheers,
80choices

Magnanimous IPA | Fort George

Fort George may just be my favorite Oregon brewery. Their Magnanimous IPA is another benchmark in creativity, it can also be called a west coast IPA. This particular nectar is brewed with Grand Doug Fir. In our neck of the woods this delicious offering is available on draft and in four packs. I was lucky enough to score the latter. 

An absolutely awesome glow of marigold illuminates the glass. Streaming carbonation livens the liquid. Outstanding clarity heightens the senses as you take in the resounding taste—west coast style yo. The Grand Fir is subtle, acting as more of an enhancer. If you're in search for a new to you IPA, look no further than Magnanimous. Enjoy craft beer responsibly.

Magnanimous IPA | 7%

Cheers,
80choices

Brew Detective: Celebration Fresh Hop IPA 2019

First Brewed in 1981, Celebration Ale uses fresh hops from the harvest season, delicately balancing the notes of pine and citrus. The malt character is not too sweet, revealing itself visually through an amber hue. Celebration Ale is a bold wintertime classic with recognizable quality. Sometimes I wish this delicious offering was available year round, but that would defeat the purpose. Freshness is reflected through the seasonal celebration of hops each year. Thanks Sierra Nevada for being a pioneer. Craft beer lovers everywhere should raise a glass to the institution from Chico.

Sierra Nevada | Celebration Ale | 6.8% | 65 IBU

Cheers,
80choices