An Exclusive Conversation on Modern West Coast-Style IPAs
Introduction
There’s always something brewing in the world of IPAs, and this time, it’s a fresh, exciting conversation on the modern West Coast IPA! Three brewing giants – Firestone Walker, Lawson’s, and Breakside – came together in one of the most engaging, enlightening, and beer-filled discussions you could listen to.
The discussion explored the intriguing evolution of West Coast-style IPAs and the brewing strategies that each of these esteemed breweries are adopting to bring out unique and refreshing flavours. So, hang tight for a deep dive into the conscious evolution and innovation in beer brewing from the lens of these passionate brewers.
The Panelists
All three breweries are well-known in the craft beer world, not just for their rich and bold flavors but also for their innovative brewing practices and tactics.
1. Firestone Walker
Founded in 1996, Firestone Walker Brewing Company has been creating cutting-edge brews for over two decades. They are recognized far and wide for their strong, bold flavors and even more so, for their ability to combine tradition with innovation.
2. Lawson’s Finest Liquids
Coming from Vermont, Lawson’s knows a thing or two about fresh, crisp, and flavor rich beers. This farm-brewery has mastered the art of brewing IPAs that truly satisfy the senses. Lawson’s is an artful blend of tradition, innovative crafting techniques, and a clear focus on quality.
3. Breakside Brewery
In the bustling beer scene of Portland, Oregon, Breakside Brewery has carved out a spot for itself. This brewery is all about pushing the envelope and delivering new flavor experiences. If it’s innovation you’re looking for, you can surely find it at Breakside Brewery.
The Significance of West Coast-Style IPAs
The panelists dove into an intriguing exploration of the West Coast-style IPAs. More than just being a beer style, West Coast IPAs stands as a tribute to craft beer’s evolution. It’s got an uplifting crispness, a hop-forward character, and a clear, amber color that creates a distinct identity.
West Coast IPAs essentially capture the unique climate, culture, and aesthetic of the west coast itself. The breweries like Firestone Walker, Lawson’s, and Breakside have not just adopted it but reinvented it in their own unique ways.
The Conversation
The conversation began with the brewers sharing their personal experiences with West Coast IPAs, exploring how they came to appreciate the complexity of these beers, and learn about their deep-seated brewing history.
Next, they discussed the technical aspects of brewing West Coast IPAs. Insightful discussions on water chemistry, barrel-aging, fermentation temperatures, and yeast types gave listeners a stunning glimpse into the fascinating, scientific world of beer brewing.
The evolution of IPA flavors and the rise of experimental brewing techniques were another key focus. The panelists shared how consumers’ ever-evolving flavor preferences have been impacting their brewing practices.
Finally, they discussed future trends in the IPA world. Considering the dynamism and innovation in the beer industry, the panelists presented some intriguing possibilities for the future of West Coast-style IPAs.
Conclusion
The conversation wrapped up leaving listeners with not just a deeper understanding of West Coast IPAs but also a newfound appreciation for their nuances and complexities. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer, a casual IPA lover, or someone just beginning your beer journey, it was abundantly clear that there is always something new to learn and appreciate in the world of beer.
As Firestone Walker, Lawson’s, and Breakside continue to innovate and experiment in their brewing practices, we can only expect to experience even more remarkable iterations of the beloved West Coast-style IPA.
