Why Horizon Hazy Pale Ale is the Talk of the Taproom
Summary: Horizon Hazy Pale Ale is more than just a beer; it’s a perfectly balanced brew crafted to delight beer enthusiasts with its smooth flavour, sessionable strength, and vibrant hop profile. Already the best-seller at Hiker Brewing Co., it’s poised to climb into the top 30 of the GABS Hottest 100 Beers.
Why Horizon Hazy Pale Ale is the Talk of the Taproom
In the thriving world of craft beer, one brew stands head and shoulders above the rest at Hiker Brewing Co.: Horizon Hazy Pale Ale. This flagship beer outsells its nearest competitor, Bushwalker, by an impressive 25%, cementing its place as a fan favourite. As the brewery’s most popular beer by far, it’s no wonder Horizon is the focus of Hiker’s ambitious campaign to break into the top 30 of the GABS Hottest 100 Beers of 2024.
Here’s why Horizon Hazy Pale Ale deserves its place among Australia’s craft beer elite.
A Hop-Forward Masterpiece
Horizon Hazy Pale Ale features an expertly curated trio of hops: Citra, Mosaic, and Idaho 7. This combination delivers an explosion of tropical fruit aromas and subtle piney undertones that captivate the palate. According to Hiker Brewing Co., these hops were selected not only for their bold flavours but for their ability to create a balanced, approachable beer.
Beer reviewers on Untappd praise the beer’s “refreshing pineapple notes and balanced bitterness.” With a current rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on over 130 reviews, it’s clear this brew has struck a chord with the craft beer community.
A Massive Undertaking: Relying on Local Support
Breaking into the top 30 of the GABS Hottest 100 Beers is no small feat—especially when you’re not on a level playing field. Unlike many competitors who benefit from nationwide wholesale and distribution, Hiker Brewing Co. takes a unique approach, focusing exclusively on taproom experiences and small-batch production.
“Our success rests on the shoulders of our local community,” explains head brewer Daniel Venema. “We don’t wholesale our beer, so every vote for Horizon Hazy Pale Ale comes from someone who’s visited our venues or supported us directly. That’s what makes this campaign so special—it’s about the strength of our local customers.”
Cloudscapes: Small Batch, Big Achievement
Hiker Brewing Co.’s previous success at the GABS Hottest 100 is nothing short of remarkable. In 2023, their first-ever Hazy IPA, Cloudscapes, secured the #52 spot—an incredible result considering the brewery only produced 4,000 litres of the beer.
Phil Sharp, Co-Founder of Hiker Brewing Co., puts it best:
“Status Quo from Mountain Culture did achieve the top spot, but they probably brewed over 1 million litres. Votes per litre produced, I think we would have been number 1. It just shows how much passion and loyalty our customers have for what we’re doing here.”
This year, the team hopes to build on that momentum, rallying their community behind Horizon Hazy Pale Ale to push into the top 30.
Crafted for the Everyday Adventurer
At 4.5% ABV, Horizon Hazy Pale Ale offers a sessionable drinking experience that fits perfectly into any occasion. Whether you’re relaxing after a hike or catching up with mates, this beer provides just the right amount of flavour and refreshment without overpowering.
Hiker Brewing Co.’s ethos revolves around embracing nature, adventure, and good company. As their motto suggests, #TakeAHike and pair your journey with the smooth taste of Horizon Hazy Pale Ale.
From Taproom to Table
Horizon Hazy Pale Ale is available in 440ml cans or freshly poured on tap at Hiker Brewing Co.’s two venues. These spaces are known for their warm community atmosphere and top-tier hospitality, making them the perfect places to discover this standout beer.
Craft beer journalist John Foyston states, “Beer tastes better when experienced at its source, where the freshness and artistry truly shine.” That couldn’t be more accurate for Horizon Hazy Pale Ale, a beer that reflects the passion and precision of its brewers.
Join the Push for GABS Glory
Hiker Brewing Co. is calling on its loyal community to rally behind Horizon Hazy Pale Ale in this year’s GABS Hottest 100. Without wholesale distribution or national reach, every single vote counts.
“We want to make this the year Horizon truly shines,” says the Hiker team. “With the support of our incredible community, we believe this exceptional brew can secure a top 30 finish.”
VOTE NOW FOR HORIZON HAZY PALE ALE – CLICK HERE
Key Takeaways
- Best-Seller Status: Horizon Hazy outsells Bushwalker by 25%, making it Hiker Brewing Co.’s most popular beer.
- Hop-Fuelled Flavour: A blend of Citra, Mosaic, and Idaho 7 hops creates bold tropical and piney notes.
- Sessionable Strength: At 4.5% ABV, it’s perfect for lighter, flavourful enjoyment.
- Small-Batch Success: Cloudscapes achieved #52 in 2023 with just 4,000 litres produced—an incredible achievement.
- Level Playing Field Challenge: Without wholesale and national distribution, Hiker relies solely on its loyal local customers for support.
- Smooth and Creamy: Lactose adds a creamy mouthfeel, making Horizon stand out in the Hazy Pale Ale category.
- Community Favourite: Loved by locals and highly rated on platforms like Untappd.
- Easy to Find: Available on tap and in cans at Hiker’s Salisbury and East Brisbane venues.
- Adventure-Friendly: Embodies the brewery’s ethos of nature, camaraderie, and great beer.
- Rally for Votes: The brewery is encouraging fans to support Horizon Hazy in the 2024 GABS Hottest 100.
With its incredible popularity, small-batch excellence, and unwavering community support, Horizon Hazy Pale Ale is ready to make a big statement. Vote, share, and #TakeAHike with Horizon!