Beer Review: Beachwood Hops of Brixton Nitro ESB
While Beachwood Brewing is world-renowned for its modern, aggressively hopped West Coast IPAs, The Hops of Brixton proves they are just as adept at executing traditional, old-school European styles. Poured from a nitro tap, this classic British-style Extra Special Bitter (ESB) is a brilliant nod to South London pub culture.
The Technical Specs
Style: British Extra Special Bitter (ESB) served on Nitro
ABV: 5.3%
IBU: 32
Malts: British Maris Otter, Light and Dark British Crystal, Flaked Barley
Hops: East Kent Goldings
Tasting Notes
Appearance and Aroma
Watching this beer pour on nitro is a theater in itself. The classic nitrogen cascade settles into a deep, clear amber-copper body topped by a dense, thick, meringue-like white head that refuses to dissipate. The aroma is slightly muted by the nitro pour, but as it warms, it opens with a beautiful, inviting melody of toasted biscuit, soft English toffee, and a faint, leafy, earthy hop character.
Flavor Profile
This beer is all about exceptional malt balance and classic execution.
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- The Lead: Rich, bready Maris Otter malt takes center stage, bringing forward flavors of toasted pie crust and nutty crackers.
- The Mid-Palate: Subtle layers of caramelized sugar and English toffee provide a gentle sweetness that never feels cloying.
- The Finish: Traditional East Kent Goldings hops round out the profile with a delicate, herbal, and slightly floral bitterness. It bridges the gap beautifully between the sweet malt backbone and a clean, dry finish.
Mouthfeel and Drinkability
The nitrogen gas completely transforms the texture here. The inclusion of flaked barley paired with the micro-bubbles of the nitro execution delivers an incredibly velvety, silky-smooth mouthfeel. It lacks the sharp carbonation prickle of standard ales, making it go down effortlessly. At a very manageable 5.3% ABV, it is engineered for long sessions.
“London’s calling,” and Beachwood answered perfectly. The Hops of Brixton is a gorgeous palate cleanser for those suffering from hop fatigue. It trades the tropical, resinous punch of modern IPAs for a masterclass in balance, texture, and traditional British brewing. If you see this on the tap list at a Beachwood location, skip the IPAs for at least one pint and experience this smooth, bready classic.
Available at SF Tequila Shop
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