
The Art of Fresh Hop Brewing
Embracing Nature's Bounty
The art of brewing a fresh hop beer like Great Divide Brewing Co's fresh hop pale ale is a celebration of nature's bounty. While most craft beers are brewed using dried hops, fresh hop beers employ hops that proceed directly from the hop fields to the brewery within 24 hours of harvesting. This swift transition preserves the delicate, lively aromas and flavors of the hop cones, delivering a unique and vibrant drinking experience. Craft breweries need to time their brewing process precisely with the hop harvest, making fresh hop beers a seasonal specialty, typically released in late summer to early fall. These beers reflect the diverse hop varieties and terroir where they are grown. Check out our in-depth piece on how sultana hops contribute to such inventive brews to understand more about the significance of hop selection. Stay tuned for an exploration of tasting notes and the flavor profile that sets Great Divide's brew apart, and get acquainted with the passionate brewing company bringing this experience to life. Additionally, you'll learn why these seasonal delights are best enjoyed fresh upon release.Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile
Tasting Experience and Noteworthy Characteristics
When it comes to tasting a fresh hop pale ale from Great Divide Brewing Co, you're in for a delightful experience. This beer is a refreshing example of how fresh hops can elevate the flavor profile beyond your typical pale ale.- Aroma: Upon the first whiff, you're met with a vibrant and earthy aroma that seamlessly blends citrus and pine notes. It's an enticing introduction that hints at the complexity to come.
- Appearance: Pouring a pale golden hue, this ale boasts a crisp and clear body crowned with a frothy white head. The presentation is as inviting as it is satisfying.
- Flavor Profile: The taste reveals a medley of juicy citrus, subtle pine, and floral undertones—perfected through the use of freshly harvested hops. The malts add a complementary caramel sweetness that balances the hop-forward character.
- Mouthfeel: With a medium body and moderate carbonation, the ale offers a smooth and satisfying mouthfeel, making each sip a pleasure.
The Brewing Company Behind the Beer
Get to Know the Brewery Behind Fresh Hop Ale
Great Divide Brewing Co, located in Denver, Colorado, is a robust force in the craft beer industry. Known for its dedication to innovative brewing and high-quality ingredients, the brewery has consistently delivered award-winning beers, including the fresh hop pale ale.
Great Divide Brewing Co was founded by Brian Dunn, who embarked on this journey with a passion for producing uniquely bold and flavorful beers. Over the years, the dedication to quality and innovation has only grown, allowing the brewery to become a staple in the craft beer community.
The team at Great Divide takes pride in sourcing local ingredients for their brews, which is particularly important in the making of fresh hop ales. By utilizing hops directly after harvest, they capture the purest essence of the flavors, offering a truly authentic experience for beer enthusiasts.
For those intrigued by the creativity and craftsmanship that goes into brewing, you might want to explore other innovators in the craft beer scene. A great start could be diving into the charm of Boulevard's Tank 7, which showcases yet another take on exceptional beer-making.
As you explore the range of fresh hop ales, you will come to appreciate the nuanced flavors that distinguish them from other pale ales. This dedication to craftsmanship is what makes Great Divide Brewing Co's offerings stand out in the ever-expanding world of craft beer.