Review: Beers of Crux Fermentation Project, 2020 Releases
Bend, Oregon’s Crux Fermentation Project got its start back in 2012, and while it remains located in a humble garage that was formerly an Aamco transmission shop, it’s pumping out enough beer that one would argue that it’s no longer a “project” but rather a full-scale business.
Recently we received sample of its three year-round offerings, plus a 2020 barrel aged offering.
Crux Fermentation Project Crux Pilz – I love the aggressively malty, well-rounded body on this German-style pilsner, almost buttery at times with notes of fresh baked bread, some yeast, and a moderate touch of earthy forest floor. A light note of lemon-spiked applesauce gives the experience a lift, but on the whole it’s a big pretzel-and-wurst kind of beer, but lively enough for summer sipping solo. 5.2% abv. A- / $11 per six-pack of 12 oz cans
Crux Fermentation Project Crux IPA – While most IPAs push toward bold fruit flavors, Crux says screw that and doubles down on the dankness. Boldly funky courtesy of “CTZ hops with a touch of Galaxy, Mosaic, and Comet,” it’s a heavy-duty west coast style IPA that pours on notes of pine needles and grapefruit peel. The ruddy, muddy finish feels like old hat these days. 5.8% abv. B / $11 per six-pack of 12 oz cans
Crux Fermentation Project PCT Porter – A straightforward but light-bodied porter, with a touch of chocolate and some cola notes. A gentle palate with moderated carbonation makes the beer drink with minimal effort, just a tiny hint of coffee bean informing the short finish. Nothing outrageous, but I enjoyed it quite a bit. 5.5% abv. A- / $11 per six-pack of 12 oz cans
Crux Fermentation Project All Worked Up Barrel-Aged Wheatwine Ale – From the 2020 Banished series, this is a rare wheatwine (vs. a barleywine) that is barrel aged for 6 months in an unstated cask type. A moderate amber in color and aggressively fruity on the nose, the beer offers aromas of candied pears and an intense raisin note that serves as a telling prelude to what lies ahead. Sure enough, the palate pours on the fruit and hits with a syrupy vanilla character that attacks the tongue with sugary gusto. Unctuous notes of fig jam and more raisins give the finish an overwhelming sweetness, with a hint of chocolate and caramel lingering on the back end. It’s intense but, I must say, a bit much at times, even for fans of barrel aged brews. 12.5% abv. B+ / $NA per 500ml bottle
Crux Fermentation Project Crux IPA
$11
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