Sometimes the best partnerships happen completely by mistake, which is the case with Ecliptic Beer from Portland, Oregon. After a series of misadventures pertaining to an Asheville beer event, some samples were sent to our Craft Beer Manager, Jeff, who immediately saw the quality. As he began to learn more about the brand, he discovered that none other than beer legend John Harris, of Deschutes Brewery fame, is the owner and brewmaster of Ecliptic. He was sold.
First and foremost, John Harris is a beer purist.
John, a soft spoken, direct man with a grey ponytail and a kind smile, started Ecliptic as his own brick and mortar brewery, where he controls each beer from start to finish. A deep love and admiration of English beers, combined with an interest in astronomy, leads to a killer product decorated with planets, solar systems, and outer space. You could even say that the beers are “out of this world.”
Freedom Beverage is lucky enough to currently be the only distributor in the eastern part of the country of Ecliptic beers, but as they have gained popularity, that might change. Plenty of the craftier beer accounts are drawn to these products, as they are priced well enough to fit anywhere on or off premise, but also have the perfect balance of appealing to a nerdy beer drinker or a casual craft imbiber. The core lineup is approachable to anyone, and the special release or reserve series offer something a little more niche.
Starburst IPA
A golden light orange color, this beer has a slight tropical aroma and a hint of malt. Some meringue on the finish, with tiny bubbles make this a classier brew.
Phaser NE IPA
Juicy, mouthwatering, and unfiltered, this blend of uncommon fruity hops such as Citra, Azacca, Mosaic and Moteuka makes a fruity, hoppy brew.
Carina Peach Sour Ale
Even though peaches are synonymous with summertime, this beer is perfect for any time of year. Pale malt leads to a crispness, and lactobacillus add to the tart and refreshing finish.
Tucana Tangerine Sour Ale
This beer is so easy to drink with a touch of tangerine that plays nicely with well balanced tartness. The twist of citrus shines above the dry finish.
Limited Release Ecliptic Beers
Also available are several limited release Ecliptic beers in North Carolina. Many of these beers use fresh hops and therefore are only available once a year. Others are made in batches and released in limited quantities throughout the year.
Altair Fresh Hop Pale Ale
This somewhat lighter bodied beer with aromas of lime zest please the palate finishes with a hint of bitterness.
Cloud Core Hazy Pale Ale
A brew of Pale and Wheat malts, along with flaked oats, combined with new and flavorful Talus and Nectaron hops, result in a juicy and tropical flavor profile. This lighter hazy option is easily enjoyed on its own or with a light meal.
Vega IPA
This international style IPA features notes of passion fruit, stone fruits, and even some berries, with herbs and resin on the finish.
Ecliptic Brewery Cosmic Collaborations
Freedom Beverage is proud to also carry several “Cosmic Collabs” from Ecliptic Brewery in North Carolina. These special release beers are collaborations with other respected brew masters.
Ecliptic + Stoup Pineapple Gose
A brew of Pale and Wheat Malt, this beer is dry hopped with Sabro and El Dorado, and contains both coriander and salt. Full fruity flavor from a heavy dose of pineapple add a relaxed tart note.
Ecliptic + Von Ebert Blackberry Meyer Lemon Ale
This Blonde Ale is fermented with real blackberries and Meyer lemons, meaning it’s fruity but also super dry. A blend of hops highlight the citrus flavors.