Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Announcing the NEW BREW: Double Dog Dare IPA!

I...India. P...pale. A...ale. A heavily hoppy concoction of brew that historically emerged on the scene in the early 1700's. The troops in the newly formed colonies found themselves without beer(!) as ale; attempting to be shipped was spoiled in transport. Luckily, they found a remedy. The generous amount of hops in an experimental beer formula protected it from heat and motion during transport to India via British sail ships. Hence the innovation of IPA. The strong hoppy taste eventually caught on and continues to proliferate.

We dig the hops flavor, but know that it can overpower if used in excess. We considered this with 'Double Dog Dare' and decided that adding more hops than what the recipe called for (but not quite double) was a necessary risk. Now at its peak, the golden cascade 'hoppiness' is a refreshing walk on the wild side. It boasts a smooth flavor with citrusy notes and a soft, yet crisp underbelly.

Hoppy = Happy in our book....noting that the playful, poignant flavor is perfect for summer in the northwest.

Coop and Jez are featured on the label- daring each other in play (or is it to add more hops?!) This summertime release is sure to make you smile....if you dare drink it!

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Pitfalls Pale Ale_Winter 2013

Welcome friends and fans!  In the midst of the dreary Seattle winter we successfully brewed & bottled our inaugural beer, the Pit-falls Pale Ale!  Pitfalls is named after Jez (Jezebel) a spirited girl who's origins are thought to be pit-bull and American bulldog.  Jez, who was adopted in 2009 via Pet Finder (found wandering the streets of Tacoma, WA) is now the beloved princess of the brew-master. Her energy, adoration of any human, and playful antics provide good entertainment for all. Though she's mostly a city girl, Jez frequently gets out to the mountains, as featured here on the label, full pack on; fording a river!  

fording the stream
label concept sketch
The BEER:  Brewing pale ale is not a new endeavor for this seasoned brewmaster.  A family history of brewing led to experimentation through the years.  Now focused on making tasty northwest style beer varietals that will appeal to beer-lovers, the pitfalls pale is a great start on our way to crafting palpable, fresh hoppiness!  How we did it: