Beer Review: Wayfinder/Heater Allen/Modern Times Terrifica Italian Style Pils
Brewery: Wayfinder Beer, Heater Allen Brewing, & Modern Times Beer (Collaboration)
Style: Italian Style Pilsner
ABV: (Likely around 5-5.5% based on style, not provided on can)
The collaboration between Wayfinder, Heater Allen, and Modern Times is enough to pique the interest of any serious lager fan. When they unite to craft an Italian Style Pilsner and name it “Terrifica,” you know you’re in for a treat that’s anything but ordinary. The can’s gothic, horror-inspired art sets a darkly intriguing tone that perfectly complements the style’s sophisticated nature.
Pouring “Terrifica” reveals a brilliant, crystal-clear golden straw color, topped with a persistent, effervescent white head that leaves delicate lacing down the glass. The clarity is pristine, a hallmark of a well-crafted pilsner.
The aroma is where “Terrifica” truly begins to shine. It opens with an elegant bouquet of floral and grassy noble hops, but quickly introduces a distinctive, almost spritzy citrus zest – often a signature of the dry-hopping prevalent in Italian Pilsners. There’s a subtle crackery malt backbone, but the hops are the star, offering a sophisticated perfume without being overwhelming or overly bitter.
On the palate, “Terrifica” delivers a masterclass in balance and refinement. It’s incredibly crisp and refreshing, with a lively carbonation that dances on the tongue. The initial taste is a harmonious blend of that gentle crackery malt sweetness, quickly followed by a nuanced hop character. The dry-hopping truly elevates this beer, providing bright notes of lemon peel, a hint of white grape, and a delicate herbal or spicy finish. It’s not aggressively bitter, but rather presents a clean, lingering bitterness that encourages another sip.
The mouthfeel is light and exceptionally clean, showcasing the precision and expertise of all three breweries involved. It finishes incredibly dry, leaving the palate refreshed and eager for more. This is a pilsner that demands your attention, revealing layers of subtle complexity within its apparent simplicity.
“Terrifica” lives up to its name in the best possible way – it’s terrifically good. This collaboration has produced an exemplary Italian-style pilsner that perfectly balances traditional pilsner crispness with the aromatic flourish of dry-hopping. It’s refined, incredibly drinkable, and a testament to the art of lager brewing. If you appreciate a pilsner with character, elegance, and a touch of hop-derived brightness, seek this out. It’s a true standout.