Every now and then, a beer comes along that reminds us why we do what we do. Coastal Drift was one of those brews.
When we first sat down with our production team to dream this one up, the goal was simple: make a hazy IPA that hits. Not just something good, but something that could hold its own alongside the best breweries in Queensland. Not out of ego or competition, but out of passion. We wanted to remind everyone, and ourselves, that Black Hops is still here. Still brewing with heart, still chasing innovation, and still capable of putting out something truly special.
Fast forward to late August and the QLD IPA Cup at Range Brewing, a showcase of some of the finest hazy beers in the state. With multiple events running across multiple venues that weekend, only one of our reps could make it to the IPA Cup to fly the Black Hops flag.
Around 6pm, a single photo of a trophy was sent from our Brisbane Rep, Ruby, confirming that Coastal Drift had claimed the Judges’ Choice Award at the QLD IPA Cup.
That win meant a lot. Not just because it’s always nice to bring home some silverware, but because it confirmed what we were hoping for: that our passion for creating world-class beer still runs deep.
We’d originally brewed Coastal Drift as a bit of an experiment, a test to see if it had the legs for a wider release. After that result, it’s safe to say the answer is a resounding yes.
So, while we can’t say too much just yet, let’s just say this drift might be rolling back into the tanks sooner than you think.