First off, a bit of a retraction. Yesterday I reported that Redhook was replacing Copperhook with Mudslinger as it’s spring seasonal. What I didn’t realize was that Copperhook isn’t being retired, it is instead transitioning to year-round brew.
Next up, I stopped at a convenience store earlier today and noticed six-packs of Red Chair sitting next to the Cinder Cone. Deschutes had announced that Oregon, Washington and Hawaii would be getting Cinder Cone as a spring seasonal, then switching to Red Chair NWPA when it runs out. It looks like we don’t have to wait after all.
I’m still not sure what’s up with the whole “Northwest Pale Ale” thing. Is there a difference between this beer and last year’s Red Chair IPA, or is NWPA just the new term for an IPA that doesn’t top 100 IBUs? Deschutes’ website has listing for both Red Chairs; the only difference I noticed, 5 more IBUs in the NWPA version. Go figure. I suppose I’ll have to give a try and find out.
Cheers!
Kevin