In recent years, the craft beer scene in China has experienced a remarkable transformation, with unique offerings capturing the attention of enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Among these, Parish Ghost Machine stands out as a notable example, blending innovative brewing techniques with rich flavors. This guide delves into the intricacies of this beer, exploring its origins, brewing process, and the cultural significance it holds within the burgeoning Chinese craft beer landscape.
Readers can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of Parish Ghost Machine, including its flavor profile, ingredients, and the brewing philosophy behind it. We will also examine how this beer reflects broader trends in the craft beer movement in China, highlighting the growing appreciation for quality and creativity among local brewers. By the end of this guide, you will have a deeper appreciation for this unique brew and its place in the evolving world of Chinese craft beer.
Parish Ghost in the Machine: A Deep Dive into the Double IPA Phenomenon
Parish Brewing Company’s Ghost in the Machine has achieved cult status among beer enthusiasts. Its hazy appearance, juicy flavors, and high alcohol content have made it a highly sought-after brew. This guide explores the beer’s characteristics, variations, and the homebrewing challenges involved in recreating it.
The original Ghost in the Machine, as detailed on BeerAdvocate (www.beeradvocate.com), is a double India Pale Ale (DIPA) known for its intense Citra hop profile. The brewery’s website, parishbeer.com, describes it as a “juicy double IPA,” highlighting its tropical fruit notes and relatively smooth finish despite its high ABV. This contrasts with some earlier versions, described on homebrewtalk.com, which were more intensely bitter.
The BeerAdvocate page (www.beeradvocate.com) provides detailed statistics, including a high average rating and numerous user reviews. These reviews often discuss the beer’s appearance, aroma, taste, and mouthfeel, providing valuable sensory information for potential drinkers. The consistent high ratings across platforms solidify its reputation.
One key element is the significant use of Citra hops. The Parish Brewing Company website emphasizes the large quantities used, contributing to the beer’s signature grapefruit and tropical fruit characteristics. The high IBU (International Bitterness Units) also points to a substantial hop presence.
A significant aspect of Ghost in the Machine’s appeal lies in its evolution. The original recipe, detailed on BeerAdvocate (www.beeradvocate.com), has been tweaked over the years. The brewery’s website currently focuses on a “double dry-hopped” version. This version further amplifies the hop character, leading to an even more intense Citra flavor profile.
Homebrewers have attempted to replicate Ghost in the Machine, as evidenced by discussions on Homebrew Talk (www.homebrewtalk.com). These attempts often involve experimenting with various hop combinations, grain bills, and yeast strains to achieve a similar profile. However, replicating the precise balance and characteristics remains a considerable challenge.
The differences between the original and the double dry-hopped versions are substantial. The double dry-hopped variant, featured prominently on BeerAdvocate (www.beeradvocate.com), boasts a more intense aroma and flavor from the increased hop additions. The original recipe likely had a more balanced bitterness and malt presence.
A review on The Beer Thrillers (thebeerthrillers.com) highlighted the beer’s unique characteristics and compared it to other popular DIPAs. This showcases the beer’s place within the broader landscape of craft beer, comparing its profile and overall experience.
| Feature | Original Ghost in the Machine | Double Dry-Hopped Ghost in the Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Hop Profile | Intense Citra, balanced bitterness | Extremely intense Citra, amplified aroma |
| Dry Hopping | Standard | Double |
| Bitterness | Moderately high | Less emphasis, more fruit-forward |
| Overall Impression | Juicy, balanced DIPA | Explosively hoppy, intensely fruity |
| Version Type | ABV | IBU (Estimated) | Hop Variety (Primary) | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original | 8.5% | 100+ | Citra | Balanced bitterness, juicy, tropical fruit notes |
| Double Dry-Hopped | 8.5% | 100+ | Citra | Extremely intense Citra aroma and flavor, very fruity |
The pursuit of cloning Ghost in the Machine demonstrates its enduring influence on the craft beer scene. While replicating the exact recipe remains elusive, homebrewers continue to strive for a worthy approximation, fueled by the beer’s exceptional quality. Its evolution highlights the dynamic nature of craft beer brewing.
Concluding Section:
Parish Brewing Company’s Ghost in the Machine stands as a testament to the artistry of hop-forward brewing. Its evolution, from a balanced DIPA to an intensely fruity double dry-hopped variant, showcases the brewery’s commitment to innovation. The difficulty in cloning it highlights the complexity of achieving such a perfect balance of flavor and aroma.
FAQs:
1. What is the primary hop used in Ghost in the Machine?
Citra hops are the dominant hop variety used in both versions of Ghost in the Machine.
2. What makes the double dry-hopped version different?
The double dry-hopped version uses significantly more Citra hops during the dry-hopping process, leading to a more intensely fruity and aromatic profile.
3. Is there a readily available recipe to clone Ghost in the Machine?
No official recipe exists, and achieving a perfect clone remains a challenge for homebrewers due to the proprietary nature of the recipe and the importance of water profile and yeast.
4. What style of beer is Ghost in the Machine?
While initially classified as a Double IPA, it is now often described as a Double New England IPA or a Double Hazy IPA.
5. Where can I find Ghost in the Machine?
Availability varies greatly. It can be found in select locations in Louisiana, through online retailers such as Tavour, or occasionally traded among beer enthusiasts.