Brew Detective: Luponic Distortion #11 | Firestone Walker

The eleventh iteration of Firestone Walker's Luponic Distortion has reached my local grocery store (the batch I brought home was brewed Dec. 7th). Early observations were obvious; it possessed good carbonation and effervescence with a long lasting foaminess, plus it's super clean and really clear. I like it!

Initially, a subtle hop-driven bitterness gives way to notes of guava and slight lemon, I did not taste pineapple as suggested by Firestone Walker. Luponic #11 is super easygoing, almost too drinkable if ya know what I'm say'n. This would be a great beer for someone who doesn't prefer IPA's but wants to try some. I was stoked to get a taste of California's central coast up in the wintry lands of Portland. Drink responsibly.

Luponic Distortion #11 | 5.9%

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PUBlication: Revolution No.004

Luponic Distortion No.004

The fourth release from Firestone Walker's Revolving Hop Series has some engaging characteristics. Firestone continues to brew with new and experimental hops, this time from South Africa. There's a lightness to this IPA. The complexities of keeping a beer clean, clear and fresh, is a challenge to say the least. I personally enjoy the interplay between the entirety of the ingredients. The lack of heavy malt and the choice of yeast make Revolution No.004 highly drinkable; this is the most session-like Luponic Distortion yet.  

Shining in the glass, No.004's clarity is pronounced, leading me to think; was this IPA brewed like a Pilsner or Lager? I really dig this installment. The brewer's tasting notes mention a white grape quality in one of the hop varietals, and I concur. Hops however, continue to lead the charge. Thanks to the Lion and the Bear for keeping craft beer interesting and attainable. Available November '16 - February '17. Enjoy responsibly. 5.9% | 59 IBU 

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PUBlication: Revolution No. 003

Firestone Walker | No. 003

The third creation from Firestone Walker's Revolving Hop Series is juicy, clean and crisp. Revolution No. 003 strongly resembles an American IPA, even if the dominant hop is from Germany. Pop the top and breathe in what an IPA is capable of. 

Two traits are pronounced as the fluid ounces leave the bottle. Visually, a pillowy head floats atop the tropical aroma. I'm under the assumption that this Luponic Distortion is filtered; the transparency is so clean. It reminds me of a rare golden nugget, magnified and made to shine under the crystal clear waters of a river. My palate was rushed with succulent fruit. Mango and lychee came to mind, as did the slightest hint of bubble gum. Both color and flavor remind me of summer. This is one of the better IPA's I've had in awhile. Revolution No. 003 is a primo example of how the wheel can be reinvented. This delectable nectar is available on draft or in the bottle through November. Drink responsibly. 5.9% | 59 IBU

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PUBlication: Revolution No. 002

Luponic Distortion No.0002

Who does number two work for? Firestone Walker this particular time. The Luponic Distortion revolving hop series has released its second offering; you can read a review of No. 001 here. They've been showcasing the process of hop selection via social media. It's amusing to see brewers snouting out a bunch of new hops.

Seven distinct hop varietals square off nicely against the pale and wheat malt. The cornucopia of hops is led by a couple of Pacific Northwest favorites. Next is a pair of new hops from Germany, followed by two additional hops from New Zealand. The latter two are said to illicit melon and tropical flowers. Last but not least is a new experimental hop that is suppose to produce notes of berry and peach. Luponic Distortion is best within 90 days of bottling. Drink these delicious marvels. Revolution No. 002 is available now, happy hunting. 5.9% | 59 IBU

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PUBlication: Revolution No. 001

Revolution Batch No. 001

Firestone Walker is at it again with their recent release of the Luponic Distortion revolving hop series. This inaugural batch is an amazing IPA brewed with experimental hops. Revolution No. 001 is a revelation; I say that because these hops are not the varietals most people are familiar with. With that said, the first taste reminded me of Pliny. I know, how can that be? These masters of craft brew have collaborated in the past. Russian River needed help when they were renovating their off-site brewing facility with new tanks and Firestone Walker was trusted with the continued production of a certain, awesome beer.

The six pack I picked up was bottled on April 6th—they recommend enjoying this brew within 90 days. This delicious IPA has a faint nose when cracked open and poured. Once in the glass, a beautiful golden clarity bubbles beneath a substantial head. The foam does retreat a bit, turning airy while still lingering. The carbonation is noticeable and adds to the palate feel. Brewed with 6 hops that were harvested in 2015, the blend can only be adequately labeled once tasted for yourself. Wheat malt partners sublimely, furthering the crisp characteristics. If you're lucky enough to spot this one-of-a-kind IPA, don't hesitate in buying it.  5.9% | 59 IBU

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PS. My review of The Legendary Boonville Beer Fest will be coming soon...