And you, Brute

The portrait

Hoppy People and La Nébuleuse have a long history together. For this Brut IPA, the two breweries from French-speaking Switzerland have reunited to frolic among the hop flowers and explore this style born in California that is making waves in the craft beer world.

Thanks to the use of enzymes that eliminate residual sugars, Et tu, Brutes displays an exceptionally dry and harmonious profile, enhanced by high carbonation that gives it the clear, champagne-like color so characteristic of the style. With a light bitterness balanced by powerful aromatic hopping, it reveals notes of lemon, citrus, and white grape that express themselves with elegance. The finish leaves a sparkling memory of brutal freshness on the palate – that perfect contrast between hoppy vibrancy and crystalline dryness that defines this innovative style.

History & Innovation

This Brut IPA is the result of a collaboration between two pioneers of the Romandie craft beer scene. La Nébuleuse and Hoppy People, a Valais brewery founded in 2016 by two hop enthusiasts, Olivier Brighenti and David Bonjour, share the same vision: to follow in the footsteps of the brewing revolution initiated in the United States and Northern Europe.

The Brut IPA style, created in 2017 in San Francisco by Kim Sturdavant, represents a reaction against the trend of creamy and juicy New England IPAs. With its extreme dryness, crystal-clear beer, and champagne-like carbonation, Brut IPA offers a refreshing contrast in the world of IPAs. This collaboration reflects the two breweries' desire to explore new frontiers in craft brewing, bringing this still-emerging style to French-speaking Switzerland in 2018.

Food and beer pairings

With its dry profile at 7% ABV and high carbonation, Et tu, Brutes draws inspiration from champagne in its pairings. Serve it with fresh oysters or seafood – the beer's liveliness perfectly cleanses the palate between each briny bite.

Its dry finish and citrus notes make it an excellent companion to white fish ceviche , sushi , or crab and avocado salad . The white grape aromas pair remarkably well with fresh goat cheese or salmon tartare .

For a surprising pairing, try it with citrus-flavored dark chocolate (like artisanal candied orange peel) – the beer's citrus notes enhance those of the chocolate without being overpowered by the sweetness. Its thirst-quenching nature also makes it an excellent choice for light Asian dishes , such as spring rolls or a spicy Thai salad . The high carbonation helps temper the spices while refreshing the palate.

The final word

And you, Brutes, remains a landmark in the history of collaborations between La Nébuleuse and Hoppy People. This Brut IPA captured the essence of an emerging Californian style and brilliantly adapted it to the tastes of French-speaking Switzerland. With its raw freshness and sparkling elegance, it proved that Swiss craft beer can innovate and surprise. A hoppy adventure that left a memory as clear as its champagne-colored hue.

Cheers! 🍻

The recipe