Stone Brewing debuts Downunderstruck
Stone rebrews fan-fave IPA celebrating Australian terroir through tropical hop bill
Celebrated for its unforgettable innovations, Stone Brewing continues its re-brews of Fan Favorites. Stone Downunderstruck IPA–a rebrew of the classic Stone 19th Anniversary Thunderstruck IPA–is now available nationwide. This latest release was first brewed in 2015 and captivated fans with massive flavors from an all-Australian hop bill.
Eight years ago, Australian hops weren’t as prominent with U.S. brewers, but sitting on the cutting edge of hop exploration, Stone’s brewers were brewing exploratory single-batch beers with then newcomers like Ella and Vic Secret. There was something about that Australian terroir which was tempting the team with unique tropical and stone-fruit hop characteristics, including papaya, pineapple, mango and peach, as well as sturdy dankness. So, Stone’s brewers dreamed up an Australian all-star cast of Ella, Vic Secret and Galaxy hops. The outcome would live up to the lofty expectations of a Stone Brewing anniversary beer: hop-heavy, high in alcohol and an all-around memorable sensory experience.
Stone Downunderstuck IPA’s tropical-fruit flavors include papaya, mango and pineapple, supported by pleasant malt and lingering bitterness. The aroma is unmatched with that tropical bouquet balanced by peppery, herbal, hearty dankness. It’s 9% ABV (alcohol-by-volume) and available for just a limited time.
“Stone 19th Anniversary Thunderstruck IPA was such a memorable beer because it showcased a particular hop region at a time when Australian hops weren’t a big focus of the US brewing world,” explained Sr. Manager of Brewing & Innovation Jeremy Moynier. “That concept of ‘terroir’ is really exemplified here. The flavor combination from these hops was really unique, and it still stands up today.”
Beer-drinkers have long followed Stone for what’s up and coming in beer development. The brewery’s last Special Release, Stone Patio Magic IPA, was brewed with Sauvignon Blanc grape-skin extract from New Zealand and experimental hops. Throwing it back now to a beer that introduced so many to the hop flavors of Australia, the spirit of exploration runs deep at Stone.
Stone Downunderstruck IPA is available in six-packs of 12-ounce cans, 22-ounce bottles and on draft nationwide. Find it using Stone’s Beer Finder and online in select states.