Tröegs Independent Brewing has announced the return of its seasonal delight, Nugget Nectar. This Imperial Amber Ale, a once-a-year treat, is a testament to the brewery’s dedication to using fresh-off-the-bine Nugget hops from their annual expedition to the Pacific Northwest for hop selection.
Co-founding brother and brewmaster John Trogner sheds light on the beer’s genesis: “Nugget Nectar is the cornerstone of our trips to Yakima for hop selection. We seek out the richness of Simcoe with its tropical mango notes and the distinctive grapefruit rind and pine essence of Nugget hops. The beer’s character truly emerges from our meticulous attention to the annual harvest options.”
While hops take center stage, Nugget Nectar achieves a fine balance by incorporating kilned malt, contributing to its robust body, textured feel, and a subtle touch of sweetness in its finish.
Sporting a striking orange hue, a bold hoppy profile, and boasting a 7.5% alcohol by volume (ABV), Nugget Nectar promises to warm the soul during the dark, wintry nights ahead.
The release of this brew accompanies the revival of the much-loved First Squeeze events at the Hershey-based brewery. Enthusiasts can enjoy freshly tapped Nugget Nectar, collect limited glassware, and acquire exclusive illustrated art prints from a curated selection of artists. A few select events will feature Nitro Nugget on tap, alongside limited-release draft pours of Double Nugget Nectar.
This year, the label art for Nugget Nectar has received unique interpretations from talented artists such as muralist and hand letterer Lisa Quine from Cleveland, printmaker Kacie Gilgore with her tattoo-style flair from York, PA, and Darrin Milliner, the artistic mind behind the label art for Tropical Stout, a collaborative brew with Tröegs for the Barrel & Flow Fest.
Evangeline Gallagher from Baltimore, known for intricate and quirky designs, along with Rachel Conville, an illustrator from Hershey and Tröegs’ in-house designer, have also contributed their distinct artistic styles. Louis Wes, recognized for colorful, flowing cartoon illustrations, brings his creations from southern New Jersey into the mix.
Beer aficionados eager for an authentic experience can participate in the First Squeeze Weekend, hosted at Tröegs from Thursday, January 18 through Sunday, January 21. This four-day celebration dedicated to all things Nugget Nectar will showcase Double Nugget Nectar on draft, exclusive firkin tappings, culinary specials, giveaways, artist print signings, and a host of other engaging activities.