PUBlication: Alpha Centauri

Alpha Centauri | Hop Valley

The first brewery to get two PUBlication reviews is Hop Valley, one of the many craft beer establishments in Eugene and one of my personal favorites. Alpha Centauri is their Imperial IPA, the big brother to Alphadelic. This "Binary IPA" was far more delicate on the nose than expected. It possesses a nice level of carbonation, an unheralded trait that can make or break an ale. My partner in crime called it, "strangely effervescent." A bubbly white foam caps the almost school bus yellow hue. 

The entire interaction on the palette is much softer than the alcohol by volume would have you assume. Which makes this Imperial kind of dangerous. It's smooth going down with a slight bite in the aftertaste. Full of flavor and bursting with Oregon hops, this is a crisp IPA with a clean malt profile. Look for Alpha Centauri in 22oz bottles at your local market, or look to the heavens. 9% | 100 IBUs

eightychoices.

PUBlication: Citrus Mistress

Citrus Mistress | Hop Valley Brewing Co.

Hop Valley Brewing Company hails from one of my favorite places, Eugene (Go Ducks). Oregon is a mecca for tasty suds. The artisans at Hop Valley brew an array of amazing beers, I particularly enjoy their line-up of IPA's. One of the freshest tasting they put out is the Citrus Mistress.

This seasonal IPA starts with aromatic punch and finishes with the refreshing quality of citrus. Four types of hops are used in the brewing process, along with grapefruit peels. First you notice the lush scent of the Mistress, a tropical bouquet. It pours a bit darker, perhaps due to the rich Munich malt. Initially the pallet registers grapefruit and a subtle bitterness through the hops. The malt has less of a presence in tasting. After that it's simple, enjoy the pure drink-ability of Hop Valley's Citrus Mistress IPA. 6.5% | 80 IBU 

Grab a 22oz. or a six pack to enjoy this well-crafted seasonal India Pale Ale. Drink responsibly. 

eightychoices.