Ghost Town Brewing x Tenma Beer Project | Shatterlight Italian Style Pilsner
Ghost Town steps away from their signature “futile misery” and aggressive hop profiles for a moment to collaborate with the upbeat crew at Oakland’s Tenma Beer Project. The result, Shatterlight, is a 4.5% ABV Italian Pilsner that recently earned a Silver Medal at the 2025 Great American Beer Festival. It is a masterclass in subtlety and high-level lager brewing.
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Pours remarkably lucid and ebullient. It is crystal clear with a pale straw hue and a tight, sparkling white head that holds its structure well, signaling the meticulous carbonation.
- Aroma: The dry-hopping—a hallmark of the Italian Style—is elegant rather than overwhelming. You’ll find a bright floral bouquet led by lemongrass and a delicate, herbal noble hop spice.
- Palate: The mouthfeel is exceptionally clean and “rounded.” While some pilsners can have a sharp mineral edge, Shatterlight is smoothed out and approachable. The flavor profile is defined by crisp water crackers and a light, bready malt sweetness, providing a perfect canvas for the hops.
- Finish: Sharp and refreshing. It finishes dry with a tiny snap of bitterness that cleanses the palate, making it a quintessentially “crushable” pint.
The Verdict
Shatterlight is a welcome respite for those who love the technical precision of a well-made lager. It manages to be “hoppy” in the traditional European sense, aromatic and nuanced, without crossing into IPA territory. It is a shining example of why both Ghost Town and Tenma are currently leading the East Bay craft scene.