Fresh Hop Carlsbad Crush Pale Ale – Burgeon Beer Co.
A Short History
Burgeon Beer Co. has built its reputation on bright, expressive hop-forward beers, and Carlsbad Crush is one of their beloved core Pale Ales. Each year during harvest season, Burgeon releases a Fresh Hop edition of Carlsbad Crush — brewed with just-picked, unkilned hops shipped directly from the Pacific Northwest. This seasonal variant captures the once-a-year flavor of peak-season hops in their most vibrant and aromatic form. It’s a celebration of the hop harvest and of Burgeon’s commitment to craft, freshness, and coastal California brewing.
Key Features
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Brewery: Burgeon Beer Co. – Carlsbad, California
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Style: Fresh Hop Pale Ale
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ABV: ~5.8% (may vary by harvest year)
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Hops: Fresh, wet-harvest hops (varietal changes with crop but typically Mosaic, Citra, or Cascade-inspired blends)
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Profile: Bright, crisp, layered with ultra-fresh hop aromatics
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Availability: Limited seasonal release during hop harvest
Tasting Notes
Fresh Hop Carlsbad Crush pours a golden straw color with a lively white head. The nose bursts with fresh pine, crushed citrus peel, mango skin, and bright herbal greenery that only freshly harvested hops can deliver. On the palate, expect flavors of juicy tangerine, ripe melon, soft stone fruit, and gentle resin, balanced by a clean malt foundation and a snappy, refreshing finish. The fresh-hop oils give it an elevated aromatics intensity without added bitterness.
Awards & Recognition
While Carlsbad Crush has earned strong praise year-round, the fresh-hop edition consistently draws acclaim from hop enthusiasts and West Coast pale ale lovers for its complexity and seasonal authenticity. Burgeon’s hop-driven beers are regularly rated among San Diego’s best, one of the most competitive beer regions in the world.
Overall Expression
The Fresh Hop release of Carlsbad Crush is bright, aromatic, and deeply expressive, capturing the fleeting character of hops at the exact moment of harvest. It’s a beer for hop lovers who want bold aroma, clean drinkability, and maximum freshness in every sip. Whether you’re exploring fresh-hop beers for the first time or you seek them out every harvest season, this annual release is one you don’t want to miss.
