The second Ground Breaker Brewing release of the year is a Bavarian inspired affair. Dampfbier, a gluten-free ale brewed with weizen yeast, will soon be hitting the shelves. At 4.5% alcohol by volume and 14 IBU it maintains similar spicy and fruit characteristics of Hefeweizen. To put a definitive Pacific Northwest stamp on their rendition, Dampfbier is dry-hopped with Santiam hops to complement the natural banana esters and clove-like phenols produced by the weizen yeast. 

Ground Breaker’s first Experiment Ale Series release saw the brewery successfully deliver on a long-held goal: crafting an American-style Porter in gluten-free form. No to be slowed by the success of Paddy Porter, the 100% dedicated gluten-free craft brewery out of Portland, Oregon is looking to provide something more Continentally inspired for their second seasonal offering of the year. 

Originating in the rural Bavarian Forest region of what is the modern Czech Republic and Germany, Dampfbier is basic and utilitarian. Brewers of the region made beers with 100% barley malt because wheat was expensive and prioritized as food instead of beverage. 

Being a dedicated gluten-free brewery, Ground Breaker’s rendition obviously doesn’t have wheat or barley but that didn’t stop Head Brewer Tyler Kueber from exploring the style. “We’re very excited to bring this lesser-known Bavarian style to the gluten-free community,” remarked Kueber. “This may be the first time that we’ve replicated a style that many traditional beer drinkers may have never experienced themselves.”

Available now in 22 ounce bottles, Dampfbier is an exploration in the diversity of beer, Kueber explained. “Nearly all of our beers are meant to be poured quietly. With this release folks should feel free to rouse Dampfbier before they pour it for more of that weizen flavor.”

Rouse before pouring for that classic flavor and look.