A Revolutionary Plant That Changed American Beer Forever

This week’s Beer of the Week is one of the original American craft beers, who's success is linked to a plant that changed the world of beer forever.

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is an absolutely delicious beer from a brewery that has become an institution in the world of craft brewing. Before anyone ever heard the term "craft beer" Sierra Nevada was hard at work crafting beers that are still sought after today.

It's fitting that a trailblazing brewery would also use a revolutionary ingredient in their flagship beer. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale uses Cascade hops. Up until the late 60's it was thought that American hops would never live up to the flavor and aroma of European hops.

In 1971 the introduction of Cascade hops by the USDA Aroma Hop Program changed the beer industry forever, proving that world-class hops could be grown right in California. Sierra Nevada first brewed their Pale Ale in 1980, utilizing the citrusy aroma and fruity pineapple flavor of Cascade hops for it's signature bold aroma and taste.

Ryan from Route 9 Discount Beverages in Poughkeepsie dropped by the WPDH studios for a tasting of our Beer of the Week and to share his thoughts on Sierra Nevada: