Ghost Town Brewing | Perverse Inverse West Coast IPA
Ghost Town continues to cement its reputation as a master of the West Coast style with Perverse Inverse. While the label art leans into the macabre and surreal, the liquid inside is a masterclass in precision and brightness. Despite the “Pale Ale” moniker sometimes used in West Coast circles for these lower-ABV crushers, this pours and drinks like a quintessential, modern San Francisco IPA.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Pours a brilliant, clear straw gold with a persistent, frothy white head that leaves beautiful lacing down the glass.
Aroma: An immediate punch of classic West Coast aromatics. Expect heavy notes of dank pine resin, grapefruit zest, and a subtle tropical undertone reminiscent of under-ripe mango or passionfruit.
Palate: The mouthfeel is lean and crisp. There is a very minimal malt backbone, allowing the hops to take center stage. The bitterness is firm and assertive but clean, avoiding any lingering astringency.
Finish: Bone-dry and refreshing. It invites another sip immediately, showcasing the “Inverse” nature of its complexity versus its high drinkability.
The Verdict
This is a beer for those who value clarity and “snap” in their brews. It avoids the heavy caramel sweetness of old-school IPAs in favor of a bright, lupulin-forward profile that highlights the quality of the hop selection. It is an ideal companion for a sunny afternoon or as a palate cleanser after a long day.