During a recent trip to Alaska, I had the opportunity to visit a variety of breweries and sample numerous beers—124 in total. Among the standout experiences was Onsite Brewing, which has quickly become a favorite.
Onsite Brewing started in early 2020 as one of Alaska’s smallest breweries, operating on a 1-barrel system. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the brewery’s exceptional beers enabled it to thrive. Last year, Onsite upgraded to a new 15-barrel facility, marking a significant expansion.
One of the highlights of my visit was a four-pack of their Higher Mindset hazy IPA, which I brought home. Priced at $20 for the four-pack, Higher Mindset boasts a 6.8% ABV. Beer & Brewing ranks it among the top 142 IPAs, alongside renowned brews like Russian River’s Blind Pig and Lawson’s Double Sunshine.
Higher Mindset pours a bright, hazy golden straw color, topped with a dense, pure white head. Although the head diminishes to a thin ring around the glass, it leaves minimal lacing. The aroma is intensely fruity, with prominent notes of berries, melon, and passion fruit, complemented by hints of pineapple, mango, and citrus. Underlying these fruity scents are subtle touches of flaked oats and wheat, adding a cereal-like quality along with a bit of dankness and resin from the hops.
The first sip reveals a lively carbonation, followed by subtle flavors and a light, almost watery body that makes the beer remarkably easy to drink. As the beer warms, the hop and yeast characteristics become more pronounced. The dominant flavors are sweet honeydew and ripe berries, followed by tropical and citrus notes. A burst of pineapple and passion fruit, with hints of guava and mango, enhances the juicy quality of the brew.
Midway through, the flavor profile introduces a background of pithy grapefruit and orange peel resin, though it remains subtle until the end of the sip. This pithiness is not overpowering and fades quickly.
Higher Mindset finishes exceptionally clean with a slight bitterness and hint of dryness that disappears almost immediately. It’s a highly drinkable, crushable hazy IPA.
Onsite Brewing, located in Anchorage, impressed me with its excellent ambiance, space, and top-notch beers. Higher Mindset exemplifies the quality of their offerings. If you find yourself in Alaska, this beer is definitely worth trying.
