Spirit Cruises January 2023 Leaderboard

Beer Review: River North Brewery's Hoppenberg Uncertainty Principle

by Nathan Solheim on Jun 23, 2014 in Beer
Beer Review: River North Brewery's Hoppenberg Uncertainty Principle

Beer lovers looking for a liquid version of “Game of Thrones” to make their lives less miserable until the series’ next season need look no further than River North Brewery’s Hoppenberg Uncertainty Principle. That is to say, the Belgian-style double IPA resembles the plot of HBO’s groundbreaking show; it’s complex and addictive.

Served in a 10-oz. snifter in River North’s smallish taproom no more than an arrow’s flight from Coors Field on Blake Street, Hoppenberg looks like a small, cloudy burnt orange bulb underneath a modest layer of creamy foam that quickly goes the way of Ned Stark.

Let Hoppenberg warm slightly and its aroma will pleasantly mix caramel and orange with a very mild funkiness. At 9 percent ABV and more than 100 IBUs, Hoppenberg could stand up to Gregor “The Mountain” Clegane in a trial by combat. But even with all that bitterness and alcohol, Hoppenberg skillfully mixes sweet, bitter and sour tastes into a potion that would make even the late lamented Tywin Lannister smile. Hoppenberg’s multi-layered flavor profile means there’s much to explore and enjoy throughout your pour, but its finish is fairly clean for a beer featuring a Belgian-style yeast strain and enough hops for a wedding in King’s Landing.

Though Hoppenberg has received an accolade here and there, it remains one of Denver’s hidden delights. As the Mile High City’s beer scene continues to grow as rapidly as the Game of Thrones cast of characters, it’s easy to get overlooked like an imp. Due to the beer’s unique combination of flavors, a food pairing for Hoppenberg might at first seem as unlikely as Arya Stark and The Hound. I’m going to go with steak or braised pork, and it wouldn’t be surprising if it went down well with fondue.

Available at the River North taproom and in 22-oz. bombers in local liquor stores, Hoppenberg is a sipper pretty much year round, though, I wouldn’t want to drink this complex excellence in the dead of an arid, hot Denver summer. Thankfully, winter is coming.

Photo: River North Brewery


Tags: Beer
Recent Articles
spacer

Feedback

How are we doing? Tell us what you like or don't like and how we can improve. We would love to hear your thoughts!

*Name:
*E-mail:
*Suggestions:
 
Rittenhouse Goes Car-Free Every Sunday in September: Here are the Best Bars to Hit

Rittenhouse Goes Car-Free Every Sunday in September: Here are the Best Bars to Hit

Center City District will close the streets allowing pedestrians to enjoy outdoor seating, music, and activiti...read more ›

by Michelle Cryder Sep 6, 2024
Best Cocktail Bars at the Jersey Shore

Best Cocktail Bars at the Jersey Shore

We've rounded up all of the must-stop spots for sipping spirits by the beach, whether your vibe is dark and sexy or vibrant and divey....read more ›

by Drink Philly Aug 26, 2024
The Drink Nation Presents: The Home Bar Project

The Drink Nation Presents: The Home Bar Project

Have you ever dreamed of having an amazing home bar, filled with bottles you actually use and the tools you need to execute a fine crafted cocktail? E...read more ›

by The Drink Nation Nov 14, 2014
SPONSORED
Spirit Cruises January 2023 Desktop Bottom Rectangle 1
Behind the Bar: Jillian Moore of My Loup

Behind the Bar: Jillian Moore of My Loup

This time on Behind the Bar, we interview bartender and bar manager Jillian Moore of My Loup. We chat with her about her cocktail menu, the effects of...read more ›

by Drink Philly May 13, 2024
Oltremare: Inside Look at their Amalfi Coast Inspired Cocktails

Oltremare: Inside Look at their Amalfi Coast Inspired Cocktails

Oltremare is the newest endeavor by Chef Townsend Wentz, located at 2121 Walnut Street, near Rittenhouse Square...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 22, 2024
Best Bars for Outdoor Drinking in Philadelphia, 2024

Best Bars for Outdoor Drinking in Philadelphia, 2024

We've got your definitive list of where to drink outside in Philadelphia...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 9, 2024
Philadelphia Distilling Launching Secret Pop-Up Cocktail Garden for Earth Day, April 11-21

Philadelphia Distilling Launching Secret Pop-Up Cocktail Garden for Earth Day, April 11-21

Philadelphia Distilling is transforming their fourth floor space into a secret garden to celebrate Earth Day, ...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 9, 2024
Dizengoff: Inside Look at the New Reimagined Restaurant, Bar, & Cocktails

Dizengoff: Inside Look at the New Reimagined Restaurant, Bar, & Cocktails

Last year, Dizengoff and Abe Fisher decided to join forces and embark on an exciting new chapter. After closin...read more ›

by Drink Philly Mar 5, 2024
Behind the Bar: Tom Foy of Butcher Bar

Behind the Bar: Tom Foy of Butcher Bar

In this installment of Behind the Bar, we sit down with bartender Tom Foy of Butcher Bar...read more ›

by Drink Philly Feb 19, 2024
48 Record Bar: An Inside Look at an Audiophile's Listening Room & Cocktail Bar

48 Record Bar: An Inside Look at an Audiophile's Listening Room & Cocktail Bar

48 Record Bar is the newest addition to the growing Listening Room trend in Philadelphia...read more ›

by Drink Philly Feb 19, 2024
SPONSORED
Drink Nation Home Bar Project Bottom Rectangle 2
View all Articles

Sign up to get weekly drinking news, bar reviews, events and more sent directly to your inbox!

Close