Ridge Runner

◎ Appearance

Ridge Runner presents a bright, pale golden hue with excellent clarity and fine, persistent carbonation visible throughout the glass. The head forms quickly and maintains solid Schaumkleiden along the sides, indicating good protein structure and hop contribution. Light catches the beer with a luminous quality typical of well-executed West Coast IPAs.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with a pronounced blast of Citra and citrus oils—lemon zest and grapefruit dominate the initial impression. Beneath sits a sturdy forest-pine resinousness from the whole cone hop selection and lupulin powder, complemented by subtle herbal undertones. The malt base remains restrained, allowing the hoppy character to command attention without any yeasty or fruity fermentation notes.

◐ Taste

Entry is clean and crisp, with the Citra character translating from aroma into a zesty, grapefruit-driven palate impression. Mid-palate develops a pronounced resinous bitterness that extends across the tongue without harshness, balanced by a lean, understated malt sweetness. The 60 IBU rating sits comfortably; bitterness is present and assertive but never astringent, allowing pine and citrus notes to remain in clear focus throughout.

◑ Finish

The finish is dry and lingering, with pine and herbal notes persisting pleasantly as the beer fades. Residual bitterness holds on the back palate without becoming metallic or fatiguing, and carbonation adds a gentle prickling sensation that supports the overall crispness.