
Hop Federation Green Limousine IPA (6 per cent ABV) was my pick of the bunch from the 2021 fresh hop vintage, so it was with great expectations that I cracked into this year’s edition. I’ve encountered more than a few duds this time around (hazy versions seem to be the main culprit), so I was a little trepidacious going in. But no fear, Hop Fed has produced yet another stunner. Hopped once again with fresh Nelson Sauvin, its hallmark passionfruit and gooseberry are on fine display in the aroma, with grapefruit and lime citrus adding some extra zing around the edges. The palate follows on seamlessly, with sharp citrus flowing into softer tropical fruit, cooling resin and a firm bitterness holds the flavour taut and focused. More conventional than the previous edition, with less of the magical and esoteric fresh-hop notes, but still looking good to once again be one of my favourites of the season.