Beer Review: Fort George Brewery – Fields of Green Hazy IPA
Fort George’s “Fields of Green” is a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest’s hazy movement. Rather than a static recipe, the brewery utilizes this label as a rotating platform, allowing its brewing team to iterate on hop combinations and experimental techniques. It is a beer that prioritizes the “fresh is best” philosophy, often emphasizing the immediate, vibrant characteristics of the chosen hop bill.
The Craftsmanship
The technical approach to Fields of Green is centered on achieving a high degree of hop saturation while maintaining a drinkable, approachable body. The brewery typically employs a combination of heavy dry-hopping, often with high-oil hop varieties, to create an intense, juicy aromatic profile. By focusing on the structural balance between soft, malted oats and expressive yeast strains, Fort George ensures that the hop character remains clean and vibrant, free from the heavy, astringent finish sometimes associated with early iterations of the style.
Tasting Notes
- Aroma: Expect a highly aromatic experience characterized by pronounced notes of candied pineapple, ripe mango, and tangerine. Secondary aromatics often include soft, floral undertones or subtle herbal hints, depending on the specific hop profile of the current batch.
- Flavor Profile: The palate is defined by a lush, fruit-forward profile, with citrus zest and stone fruit dominating. The sweetness is balanced by a subtle, soft bitterness, keeping the profile refreshing and preventing it from becoming cloying.
- Mouthfeel: It has a medium-to-full body with a silky, pillowy texture, thanks to oats and wheat. The carbonation is moderate, helping lift the hop oils and providing a crisp finish.
Verdict
Fields of Green serves as a consistent, high-quality benchmark for the Hazy IPA style. It excels because it avoids being overly experimental or abrasive; instead, it relies on precision brewing and ingredient freshness to deliver a reliable, satisfying experience. It is a quintessential “fridge staple” for those who enjoy the tropical, juice-forward aesthetic of the modern IPA without compromising on structural balance.
Please Note: To ensure absolute freshness and optimal storage temperatures, all craft beer arrivals are sold exclusively in-store and are not available for online ordering.
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