Release #8: Omega Yeast
Made in collaboration with Omega Yeast, this was the first Outcross to focus on an ingredient apart from hops. Each variation of this Outcross release was fermented with a different yeast from Omega. We featured Star Party and Cosmic Punch, both “Thiolized” yeasts bred to enhance thiol production, as well as Sundew, a strain of Belgian yeast bred to remove spicy, phenolic character.
STAR PARTY
A modified version of the west coast standard Chico ale yeast, Omega expects Star Party to produce passion fruit, dank pink guava, and citrus zest flavors.
Tasters noted this variation showed some funky / harsh character in addition to its fruit flavors.
COSMIC PUNCH
A modified version of a classic Hazy IPA strain, British Ale V, Omega expects Cosmic Punch to produce vibrant grapefruit, passion fruit and guava notes.
Tasters preferred this version, finding it “brighter” than Sundew, and “easier to drink” than Star Party.
SUNDEW ALE
A Belgian ale strain bred to inhibit the production of phenols, resulting in a flavor profile that is pure, juicy red-fruit bouquet.
Tasters preferred this version almost 1:1 with Cosmic Punch, but it ultimately took second place. This one was described as “smooth” and “light.”
COSMIC PUNCH to the moon!
We compiled our feedback, and the Cosmic Punch variation received the highest scores of the lineup! This series was generally described as fruity and tropical, with Cosmic Punch showing the most fruit flavor, without some of the harsh edges present in the Star Party Variation.