Beer of the Week: Shades of Daylight

From the Beer Writer: There are few business-to-business collaborations that seem as fitting in San Diego as a sunglass company and brewery confabulation. Vista’s Helia Brewing recently teamed with RAEN Optics in just such a fashion, brewing up a signature pale ale for the recreational eyewear brand. This may come as a shock to you, but I’m not all that fashionable. So, this is the first time I’ve heard of RAEN…though I have to say their products look pretty darn good. This beer also marks my introduction to the Triumph hops featured in this collab beer, Shades of Daylight. I hope it’s not the last time I come across this Washington-bred varietal, because this beer is pretty darn good, too. Its aromas of overripe mango and orange peel are positively delightful. So, too, are its flavors of apricot, papaya and guava. And a 5.8% alcohol level makes it the type of beer one can enjoy several of during a day spent in the sun. This pale ale is worth seeking out, but when you do, don’t look for its name or the company’s logo on the can. The former is non-existent and the latter is teeny-tiny. Instead, look for the RAEN logo when shopping for a fresh set of beer goggles.

From the Brewer: “We were very excited to collaborate with RAEN Optics on this project. This was planned for last summer’s injunction with a few release parties and shows in L.A. and New York, but ultimately got pushed out. With RAEN’s local influence and headquarters on PCH in Oceanside, it was easy to work together on this beer. We wanted to create a beer that is approachable, clean, and ultimately, Californian. The grain bill is California select two-row with a touch of organic wheat. The hops are Triumph and Amarillo. The Triumph was grown on a special lot from CLS Farms in Washington, where proceeds supported the Wellness House in Yakima. This varietal is fairly delicate, but we were curious to use it in larger amounts while not overpowering other subtleties. Cans of this beer are available at the tasting room for now and are planned to hit select stores just prior to Memorial Day.”—Kelby Pendry-Edwards, Co-founder & Brewer, Helia Brewing