Some beers are simply born for a fresh hop version, and Pacific Coast Tapawera Sunrise, a Double NZ Pilsner (6%) out of Mangawhai is one of them. Its dank and meandering herbaceous notes were primed for an injection of fresh hop magic to really make them come alive. The fresh hop on display here is Pacific Sunrise from Hop Revolution, a very rarely planted variety that has only recently begun to gain more interest.
Gentle aromas of pine, rockmelon and mango lead the nose, with a deeply green and resinous undertow of fresh herbal character. Mellow and juicy on the palate, with a gentle bitterness and a surprising note of mixed red berries right on the finish. Remarkably elegant and gentle for a strong pilsner.
