For craft beer aficionados, few events generate as much excitement as the annual unveiling of Sierra Nevada Brewing’s Celebration IPA. This iconic brew signifies more than just the joy of the season; it represents a culmination of a bountiful hop harvest, combined with the nostalgia of holiday gatherings. Unlike any other seasonal offering, Celebration IPA not only elevates the taste profile but also anchors itself firmly in the changing of the seasons, serving as a bridge from fall into winter.
Celebration IPA boasts a robust 6.8% ABV, a compelling upgrade from the brewery’s flagship Pale Ale, which rests at 5.6% ABV. The unfamiliar but welcomed increase in alcohol content paired with the freshness of hand-selected hops transforms this brew into a winter staple that unites every beer lover. In essence, every sip embodies not just the spirit of festivities but also hints at the recent harvest, embracing the artistry of brewing which connects past traditions with contemporary craft.
While many swarm to grab their share of Celebration, a lesser-known yet equally compelling creation lies within the walls of Sierra Nevada’s Mills River taproom in North Carolina — Celly Drippins. Exclusively brewed for the brewery’s taproom, Celly Drippins showcases the ingenuity of the brewing process by offering an intensely hopped variation of Celebration, derived from the very drippings collected during the dry hopping process. This complex method adds an element of exclusivity, as the beer remains almost entirely hidden from the wider public’s palate until word of its existence circulates among enthusiasts.
Scott Jennings, the Technical Brewmaster at Sierra Nevada, emphasizes the laborious method characteristic of creating Celly Drippins. The manipulation of hop bags within the fermenter is no small feat, often requiring a team of three to work efficiently. What many overlook as mere dribble becomes the essence of this elusive beer — an instance where even the most minute details of brewing can yield remarkable results. The process, inherently flawed yet ingenious, invites a new understanding of how flavors can be crafted in unexpected ways.
The Evolution of Celly Drippins‘ Popularity
In its nascent stages, Celly Drippins was born out of a practical need — a reward for the brewery’s staff and a simple offering to the local community. However, it quickly outgrew its humble beginnings, as word spread like wildfire about this secret brew. Jennings recounts the excitement that follows its release, with patrons calling the brewery days in advance, vying for a taste of something that few have had the pleasure to enjoy.
Brian Grossman, Chief Brewer and owner of Sierra Nevada, acknowledged this growing enthusiasm when he noted a shift in how the brewery communicates its exclusive offerings. After realizing the demand had outpaced the informal word-of-mouth announcements, they decided to take a bold step and publicly announce the release of Celly Drippins. This adaptation reflects the pioneering spirit of craft breweries — they are not just purveyors of beer but also storytellers charting the course through seasonality and local culture.
The release of Celly Drippins is now marked on the calendars of craft beer connoisseurs, typically taking place the day before Thanksgiving. With only a limited quantity produced, often around five to seven barrels per year, the rarity of this brew only amplifies its appeal. The production of Celly Drippins is quite literally a labor of love, where creating 5,000 cans of Celebration results in a single can of this highly sought-after variant.
This scarcity emphasizes the artistry that goes into each batch, accentuating varied hop profiles that shift with each harvest, making every release an unforeseen experience. Jennings praises Celly Drippins for its richer hop character, influenced by the seasonal variations in hops, emphasizing how the changing elements can lead to an entirely unique taste. This variability translates to an experience that evolves not just based on production techniques but also on the subtleties of nature.
With the official tapping scheduled for November 22, 2024, at 3 p.m., the anticipation continues to build. Celly Drippins has transformed from a simple byproduct into a celebrated event, embodying the communal spirit that defines craft beer culture. As craft beer enthusiasts gather to toast not just their taste buds but also the season of togetherness, it becomes clear that within these exclusive and often ephemeral offerings lies an enduring essence of what it means to appreciate the art of brewing.
Sierra Nevada’s continuous dedication to craft and connection showcases the importance of community in the craft beer world. As the countdown begins for another year, Celly Drippins serves as a reminder that the best experiences often come from the most unexpected places, bringing people together for the joy of discovery and the richness of flavor, making every sip a true celebration.
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