Pure Project Brewing Co. - Early Swell West Coast Pale Ale
Short History
Pure Project Brewing Co. has built a reputation for its commitment to both exceptional beer and environmental stewardship. Their philosophy, born from the founders' time in Costa Rica, centers on using "pure" ingredients and crafting beers that reflect a specific sense of place. "Early Swell" is a perfect embodiment of this ethos. It's a tribute to the classic West Coast Pale Ale, a style that put San Diego craft beer on the map. This beer is a result of Pure Project's meticulous approach to hop selection, featuring hops chosen by their Head Brewer, Demetra, for their ability to deliver the quintessential West Coast flavor profile: a clean, crisp, and beautifully balanced hop-forward experience.
Key Features
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Classic West Coast Style: A refreshing and clear Pale Ale that focuses on hop flavor and aroma with a balanced bitterness, a true nod to the style that originated in this region.
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Select Hop Profile: Brewed with a unique combination of Southern Cross hops from New Zealand (a favorite of their head brewer) and Mosaic Cryo hops from Washington State.
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Crushable and Approachable: With a moderate ABV of 5.1%, it's a beer that is highly drinkable and perfect for any occasion.
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Emphasis on Terroir: The use of specific, high-quality hops from distinct regions allows the beer to showcase the unique characteristics of its ingredients.
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A Nod to the Outdoors: The name "Early Swell" evokes the quintessential California surf culture, reflecting the brewery's deep connection to nature and a "Pura Vida" lifestyle.
Tasting Notes
Early Swell pours a clear, golden straw color with a clean, white head. The aroma immediately transports you with waves of zesty citrus, including notes of lemon and grapefruit, complemented by tropical pineapple and a distinct, resinous pine character. On the palate, the beer is crisp and refreshing, with a light-to-medium body. The flavor is a harmonious blend of juicy fruit and a clean bitterness. Notes of bright lemon peel and grapefruit zest lead the way, followed by a subtle sweetness from the pineapple and a refreshing piney finish. The beer finishes with a refined and lingering bitterness that showcases the hops from first sip to last.
Awards and Accolades
While specific accolades for "Early Swell" may be developing, Pure Project's overall excellence and its other beers have received significant recognition, cementing their reputation as a top-tier brewery.
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Pure Project: Named "Best Brewery of 2024" by San Diego Magazine.
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Rain Pilsner: Won "First Place Pilsner" at the 2023 and 2022 San Diego Beer News Awards, a testament to their mastery of clean, classic styles.
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Diamond Dust Murky IPA: Rated 95/100 by Wine Enthusiast and named to their "Top 50 Beers of 2023."
These awards highlight the brewery's consistent ability to produce world-class beer across a variety of styles.
Overall Expression of the Product
Pure Project's "Early Swell" is more than just a pale ale; it's a liquid ode to the West Coast. It’s a clean, crisp, and intensely aromatic beer that beautifully balances juicy fruit with a classic, resinous bitterness. This is a beer for the hop lover who appreciates a refreshing and drinkable brew. With its impeccable balance and vibrant hop character, Early Swell is a perfect example of how a classic style can be elevated through quality ingredients and masterful craftsmanship. It’s a beer that captures the essence of a perfect day on the California coast.
