Beer Review: Kern River / Burgeon 20th Anniversary Collaboration West Coast IPA
The 20th Anniversary collaboration between Kern River Brewing Company and Burgeon Beer Company is a masterclass in modern West Coast IPA production. By merging Kern River’s storied tradition of clean, hop-forward brewing with Burgeon’s contemporary approach to IPA design, this release offers a bridge between the classic roots of the style and the refined techniques of today’s industry leaders.
The Craftsmanship
This collaboration highlights a meticulous commitment to hop management. By blending high-alpha varietals, the brewers achieve an impressive depth of resinous and citrus character without sacrificing the crisp, bone-dry finish that defines the best West Coast examples. The malt profile is intentionally kept light and unobtrusive, serving solely as a platform to showcase the vibrant hop oils, resulting in a beer that is bright, clear, and focused.
Tasting Notes
- Aroma: Upon pouring, the beer releases an aromatic wave of fresh pine needles and citrus zest. There is an underlying complexity of dank, earthy herbs, with a whisper of stone fruit, that provides an inviting aromatic profile.
- Flavor Profile: On the palate, the experience is sharp and refreshing. Bright notes of pink grapefruit and lemon pith are prominent, perfectly complemented by a clean, resinous bitterness that coats the tongue. There is just enough tropical fruit depth to keep the mid-palate interesting, leading into a crisp, dry finish.
- Mouthfeel: The body is light to medium, with a bright carbonation that accentuates the hop-driven crispness. The finish is notably clean, inviting immediate follow-up sips.
Verdict
The Kern River / Burgeon 20th Anniversary IPA is a sophisticated celebration of the West Coast style. It hits all the right notes: it is intensely hoppy, impeccably clean, and exceptionally drinkable. For those who appreciate an IPA that prioritizes clarity and hop-forward bitterness over soft, cloudy textures, this collaboration is a benchmark. It is a fitting tribute to Kern River’s twenty years of brewing excellence and a highlight for hop enthusiasts everywhere.
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.
Available at SF Tequila Shop
Exploring the dynamic craft beer scene of San Francisco, one pint at a time. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, we’re dedicated to uncovering the best local brews. We believe in the power of community and the unique stories behind every bottle. Our mission is to share our passion for craft beer with the Bay Area and beyond.