Beer Review: Original Pattern / Pure Project Green Horizon New Zealand Hopped West Coast IPA
Style: West Coast IPA
ABV: 7.0%
IBU: Not listed (likely moderate to assertive)
Brewery: Original Pattern Brewing Co. (Oakland, CA) & Pure Project Brewing (San Diego, CA) – Collaboration
Hops: New Zealand Hops (specific varieties not listed, but expected to be aromatic and juicy)
Appearance: Pours a clear, brilliant pale gold with a slight straw hue, sparkling cleanly. A fluffy, bright white head forms, holding well before settling to a resilient cap and leaving attractive lacing around the glass. It looks crisp and inviting, true to the West Coast IPA style.
Aroma: The aroma is a fantastic showcase of New Zealand hops – incredibly vibrant and unique. It bursts with pungent notes of white grape, gooseberry, and a distinctive “dank” diesel-like character, reminiscent of Sauvignon Blanc wine. Layers of bright citrus (lime, passionfruit) are also present, adding to the tropical fruit complexity. There’s a subtle herbal or floral undertone, all supported by a clean, light malt sweetness that allows the hops to truly shine. It’s incredibly aromatic and enticing.
Taste: “Green Horizon” delivers a captivating and well-balanced flavor profile that highlights the best of New Zealand hops. The initial taste is a wave of juicy white grape and zesty lime, immediately followed by that unmistakable gooseberry tartness and dankness that these hops are known for. There’s a clean, firm bitterness that quickly builds, characteristic of a West Coast IPA, but it’s not harsh. Instead, it complements the fruity and herbal notes, leading to a crisp, dry finish. Subtle notes of passionfruit and a delicate spicy hop character also emerge. The malt profile is minimal, providing just enough sweetness to complement the hop flavors without overpowering them.
Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied with a crisp and effervescent carbonation that creates a very refreshing drinking experience. It finishes exceptionally dry and clean, leaving the palate invigorated. There’s a pleasant lingering bitterness and a slight resinous quality that contributes to its West Coast IPA character without being cloying or heavy.
Original Pattern and Pure Project have crafted an outstanding collaboration with “Green Horizon.” This West Coast IPA is a brilliant demonstration of how unique and expressive New Zealand hops can be when given the spotlight. It offers a refreshing departure from traditional American hop profiles, showcasing distinct notes of white grape, gooseberry, and dank, alongside classic citrus. The beer is incredibly clean, balanced, and highly drinkable, making it a fantastic choice for any IPA enthusiast looking to explore the greener pastures (pun intended) of international hop varieties. Highly recommended for its vibrant aroma, complex flavor, and impeccable execution.