Finback Brewery x Fidens Brewing 'Grain Finished Two' DDH Double IPA, New York

Finback Brewery x Fidens Brewing Grain Finished Two DDH Double IPA is a boldly aromatic collaboration that brings together two of New York's celebrated producers of hop-forward beer. The follow-up to their original Grain Finished release, this 8.8% hazy Double IPA combines Citra and Azacca with concentrated Riwaka and Nectaron Hop Kief for an exceptionally fruit-driven expression. Traditional T90 hop pellets and potent hop kief create layers of ripe melon, tropical fruit, and candied citrus, delivering an exuberant hop character wrapped in a rich, juicy profile.

Product Details:

• Finback Founders: Basil Lee and Kevin Stafford
• Fidens Founders: Steve Parker, Tim Pierce, and Michael Carter
• Alcohol: 8.8% ABV
• Hops: Citra, Azacca, Riwaka Hop Kief and Nectaron Hop Kief
• Hopping: Double dry-hopped
• Hop Formats: Traditional T90 hop pellets and concentrated hop kief
• Appearance: Hazy golden
• Release: September 2026
• Series: Follow-up to the original Grain Finished collaboration

Sensory Description:

Hazy golden in appearance, with an expressive hop aroma dominated by ripe melon, tropical fruit and candied citrus. The concentrated Riwaka and Nectaron Hop Kief amplify the fruit character, while Citra and Azacca contribute further layers of juicy citrus and tropical complexity. The palate is intensely fruit-forward, with a generous impression of melon and sweet, candy-like fruit. Bold hop saturation gives the beer an expansive aromatic presence, creating a powerful yet inviting Double IPA experience.

Brewers' Background:

Finback Brewery was founded in Queens, New York, in 2014 by longtime friends Basil Lee and Kevin Stafford. Built around a shared passion for homebrewing, experimentation, and creative expression, Finback developed a reputation for inventive hop-forward ales and an adventurous approach to ingredients and brewing techniques. The brewery has expanded its presence across New York City while maintaining a strong emphasis on collaboration, innovation and expressive beer styles. Grain Finished Two reflects that philosophy through its combination of traditional hop pellets and concentrated hop products.

Fidens Brewing Company was founded in 2019 by Steve Parker, Tim Pierce and Michael Carter, three friends whose enthusiasm for exceptional craft beer evolved into a brewery in New York's Capital Region. Parker developed the original recipes through years of homebrewing and served as the founding head brewer, helping establish Fidens' reputation for richly aromatic, hop-saturated IPAs. As the brewery grew, he transitioned toward operations and helped train the next generation of brewing talent, including Dana, who later assumed the head brewer role and became a part-owner. The collaboration with Finback brings together two breweries with a shared enthusiasm for expressive hop combinations and intensely flavorful hazy ales.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled at approximately 7-10°C in a tulip glass to concentrate its abundant hop aromatics. Grain Finished Two pairs particularly well with spicy fried chicken, barbecue, grilled burgers, loaded nachos and richly seasoned tacos. Its tropical fruit character also complements Thai curries, spicy Asian-inspired dishes and sharp cheeses. Enjoy fresh to experience the full intensity of its double dry-hopped aroma and vibrant fruit profile.