Relatively new to the pale ale patois is the Cold IPA, a crisper brew that uses pilsner malt and lager yeast to yield a higher ABV than its similarly-constructed IPL (India Pale Lager). Utilizing New World hops, a Cold IPA is an IPA through and through, but with the smoother drinkability of a lighter lager. This new beer type is achieved through a colder fermentation process than your typical IPA (hence the name).
Oregon’s own 10 Barrel Brewing Co. has partnered with American heritage brand Danner to make its latest Rock Hop Cold IPA, a refreshing ale that’s lighter in body with a soft malt foundation at 7.1% ABV. Created by the brewery’s Denver brewpub master Kay Witkiewicz, Rock Hop combines Azacca, Cashmere, El Dorado, and Idaho 7 hops for a lower bitterness at a mere 45 IBU, and is comparable to the more modern West Coast IPAs on the market.
Inspired by the very boots worn by its brewers when crafting its beers, 10 Barrel is a big advocate for its fellow Oregan-based brand, Danner, which makes the two brands a perfect match on this collab. Reminiscent of the outdoors, Rock Hop offers notes of the fresh pine native to the Pacific Northwest, with hints of orange zest as well. A portion of all Rock Hop Cold IPA sales will go to Trailkeepers of Oregon, an organization committed to restoring funding and renewing government interest in hiking trails — clearly a cause Danner can get behind.
Whether you’re traversing through nature or doing work around your yard, Danner and 10 Barrel’s Rock Hop is the perfect beer for any of your boot-wearing activities. The Cold IPA is available year-round in half-barrel kegs, sixtels, or six-packs of 12oz cans.
