Crux Fermentation Project's "Fresh Is Best" is a limited seasonal Fresh Hop Hazy IPA brewed in Bend, Oregon. Each year in August, the brewery's brewers travel over the Cascade Mountains to Goschie Farm to hand-pick Centennial hops at peak freshness, then rush them back to the brewery for same-day use. Using fresh (wet) hops rather than dried pellets imparts a uniquely vibrant, raw hop character that cannot be replicated any other time of year.

The beer pours a golden to amber hue with a hazy appearance and a white creamy head. Aromas lead with floral, citrus, and pine from the Centennial hops, with supporting notes of tropical fruit and sweet malt. The taste follows with juicy citrus, lemon, pine needle, and a lush floral quality that lingers on the palate, finishing with moderate bitterness and a touch of biscuity caramel malt. It finishes clean and refreshing. ABV is 6.9% with approximately 50 IBUs.

This is a limited-release seasonal beer sold in 4-packs of 16oz cans, available at Costco and select Pacific Northwest retailers in September and October during the hop harvest window.