BridgePort Brewing Company in Portland, Oregon has built quite a reputation in it's nearly 30 year history (founded in 1984). With roots literally spreading like a vine, the wine making beginning is prominent in BridgePort’s beers. Who else could produce Gold Medal winning craft brew from the most populated area in Oregon with locally produced Barley and Hops? (Besides Dogfish Head, because they can do anything)
Likely the most prominent of BridgePort's creations is their IPA. In 2000, BridgePort’s IPA won the gold medal and the Champion Ale Trophy at the Brewing Industry International Awards, making it the first American Brewery to win in the 200-year history of the awards. Pretty impressive!
Being a self proclaimed hophead, I prefer for my IPA's to be right up in your face saying a sort of, "How do you like me now!" kind of thing. This isn't one of those beers. I could certainly drink this all day long though. I can see why BridgePort has won awards with this beer in multiple categories.
Each bottle, keg or cask of BridgePort’s award-winning IPA is naturally-conditioned and double fermented, resulting in a smooth, easy drinking year-round ale. Brewed with a blend of five hop varieties, BridgePort IPA presents a floral, citrusy aroma and full hop flavor, while downplaying the bitterness common in classic IPA-style beers. BridgePort’s IPA pours smooth in the glass, emitting a signature golden glow.
A brewery with its roots in wine.. sounds fun to me!