This Cider’s Got (Rare) Hops
Exploring the Depths of Flavor: Wheel Line Cider’s New IPC Hopped Cider Unveiled
A light, refreshing cider with outstanding tropical aromas. That’s the goal right? Something delicious to enjoy the warmer summer months on a patio in Central Washington.
And if we can tie in with the community, even better. That’s where our latest IPC Hopped Cider comes in.
Crafted under the expert guidance of our very own fermentation specialist, Nate Lambert, this unique creation is set to redefine your cider experience. Let’s delve into the origins of the IPC Hopped Cider, the process of obtaining the special hops from Yakima Quality Hops, and the craft involved in its production.
The Maker Behind the Cider: Nate Lambert
At Wheel Line Cider, we take pride in our commitment to our community and really good cider. And a crucial element of our success is our talented cider maker, Nate Lambert. With a reputation as a fermentation master, Nate's skill and passion infuse every batch of cider with a distinct and delightful character. It's his dedication to creating delicious and unique ciders that sets WLC apart in the craft cider industry.
Local Values and Historical Inspiration
The choice of hops for the IPC Cider is rooted in our commitment to local collaboration and a chance meeting a few years back, between Nate and Lee Rottweiler, the Vice President of Yakima Quality Hops. As two industry professionals with a shared passion for fermentation, they naturally engaged in conversation.
Lee shared the exciting news about a proprietary hop variety that Yakima Quality Hops had discovered and was developing. Few cideries had explored its potential, and Lee, recognizing Nate's expertise, suggested that WLC should give it a try. This encounter became the catalyst for a collaboration that would yield the exceptional IPC Hopped Cider.
“Our joy working in the craft community has always come from building relationships, from finding ways to support our hop growers and our brewing partners,” Lee said.
Yakima Quality Hops: Crafting History in Every Hop
The IPC Hopped Cider showcases a proprietary hop variety, Elani hops, from Yakima Quality Hops. This innovative hop variety boasts a rich history, unique flavors, and a carefully thought-out name that reflects its utility. Phonetically pronounced ee-LAH-nee, this variety is described as clean and bright and has found favor among brewers in hop-forward beer styles such as West Coast IPAs, hazy IPAs and pale ales, among others.
Yakima Quality Hops has been at the forefront of hop development, and this new variety promises to revolutionize the brewing and cider-making landscape. As pioneers in the industry, Yakima Quality Hops aligns with WLC's dedication to quality and innovation.
The hops, having tropical aromas and a distinctive flavor profile, were carefully selected to enhance the character of our new IPC Hopped Cider.
The Cider-Making Process: Meticulous Craftsmanship
Nate's expertise showed off during the diligent cider-making process of the IPC Hopped Cider. The journey from fermentation to the final bottled product involved careful consideration of flavors, aromas, and the overall drinking experience.
Fermentation, a critical phase in cider making, took just a couple of weeks. Nate ensured that the cider developed the desired characteristics. Stabilizing and settling the cider followed, creating the foundation for a beverage that would captivate the senses.
A key element in the IPC Hopped Cider's creation was the dry-hopping stage. Nate subjected the cider to a 72-hour dry-hop, infusing it with the outstanding tropical aromas attributed to the Elani hops. This step, combined with a final filtration, carbonation, and bottling, transformed the cider into a masterpiece that reflects the dedication to craftsmanship at WLC.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
The culmination of Nate Lambert's expertise, the unique Yakima Quality Hops, and a commitment to excellence results in the IPC Hopped Cider – a cider that promises to delight your palate. Nate describes the cider as “light, refreshing, and brimming with outstanding tropical aromas from the Elani hops.”
The flavor profile of the IPC Hopped Cider invites you to explore a symphony of tropical notes, a perfect harmony of sweetness and crispness. As you take that first sip, you'll be transported to the orchards and hop fields that inspired this exceptional creation.
Savoring the Cider Experience
IPC Hopped Cider from Wheel Line Cider is more than just a beverage; it's a testament to the artistry, collaboration, and dedication that define our craft!
As you raise a glass of IPC Hopped Cider, you're not just savoring a drink; you're experiencing the result of a journey that began with a chance meeting, evolved through collaboration, and culminated in a cider that captures the essence of WLC's commitment to local values and historical inspiration.
Join us on this exciting adventure as we raise a toast to innovation, craftsmanship, and the joy of sharing a truly exceptional cider with fellow enthusiasts. The IPC Hopped Cider awaits – an embodiment of the passion and creativity that define Westside Local Cider. Cheers!