By DCBeer contributor Aaron Morrissey
Name: Deschutes Brewery
Location: Bend, OR
Website: www.deschutesbrewery.com
Type: Brewery and Brewpub
Available in DC Market: No
What you need to know: When it comes to much-hyped West Coast breweries, Deschutes might not have the wide-ranging cachet of Russian River — but they’re not far off. And for good reason: Deschutes has brewed a wide-ranging portfolio of both standards like west coast IPAs and small-batch experimentals for over 25 years. For the unaccustomed, think Dogfish Head, if Sam Calagione was from the Pacific Northwest — they do the standards well, and the crazy stuff even better.
Beer #1: Fresh Squeezed IPA (India Pale Ale / 6.4%)
In Their Own Words: “This mouthwateringly delicious IPA gets its flavor from a heavy helping of citra and mosaic hops. Don't worry, no fruit was harmed in the making of this beer.”
Food Pairing: Broccoli Rabe and Pancetta Stuffed Mushrooms
Our Thoughts: Formerly only available in Deschutes’ brewpub, this one’s exactly what people usually think of when they hear the phrase “IPA from Oregon.” It’s unabashedly hop-forward and a citrus bomb.
Beer #2: Not the Stoic (Quadrupel / 12%)
In Their Own Words: “Aged and sequestered in select oak casks. The result – a contemplatively brewed quad created in homage to all those who doubted the original. This unrepentant rendition is definitively Not The Stoic.”
Food Pairing: Duck Confit
Our Thoughts: You might need a squeezing after this pairing — Not the Stoic is a aged for 11 months in both Pinot Noir and Rye Whiskey barrels and prominently features both Czech Saas and Pomegranate Molasses. The duck should pair beautifully, but this is the definition of a big beer. Handle with care, people.
This profile is a part of the DCBeer.com SAVOR Brewery Profile series. For more information, follow the link to see profiles of all 2014 SAVOR participants.
