When it comes to bold, hop-forward innovation in the Mediterranean craft beer scene, Radical Way Brewing has earned a reputation for pushing boundaries. I had the pleasure of tasting their Infernal Ascension Double NEIPA at the Paphos Beer Festival 2025, and it’s easily one of the most memorable beers I’ve encountered this year. Here’s my full review—covering the beer’s origins, pour, aroma, flavor, and my final verdict.
The Story Behind Radical Way Brewing and Infernal Ascension
Radical Way Brewing began as a DIY homebrew project in Cyprus back in 2015. Using a makeshift system that included an old icebox and an olive oil container, the founders brewed their first amber ale and unknowingly kickstarted a revolution in the island’s brewing culture. By 2019, they transitioned into a full-fledged nomadic craft brewery, producing beers in various locations while maintaining their Cypriot roots.
In 2020, they became the first brewery in Cyprus to release craft beer in cans, and shortly after, they expanded their brewing operations to Greece. Known for their experimental and hop-saturated styles, Radical Way doesn’t just follow trends—they carve their own path.
Infernal Ascension, released in late 2024, is one of their most ambitious creations: a Double Dry-Hopped New England Double IPA brewed with a hellish dosage of hops—25g per liter—and a blend of Mosaic, Citra, and Sabro. With an 8.0% ABV and a reputation for over-the-top juiciness, it promises a bold sensory ride from start to finish.
The Pour: Hazy and Hypnotic
Pouring Infernal Ascension is an experience in itself. The beer flows thick and smooth, landing in the glass with a dense, glowing golden-orange hue. Completely opaque and unfiltered, it captures the visual essence of a well-crafted New England-style DIPA. A frothy, off-white head rises quickly and settles into a persistent layer, leaving lacing that clings to the glass with each sip. Even before the first taste, it looks like a tropical juice bomb—and it doesn’t disappoint.
Aroma and Taste: A Tropical Hop Storm
The aroma erupts the moment the can is opened, flooding the air with overripe mango, sweet pineapple, and zesty orange peel. As the beer warms slightly in the glass, those initial bursts are joined by creamy coconut notes, a signature touch from the Sabro hops. There’s also a subtle grassy edge and a whisper of dank pine underneath the fruit-forward top layer.
On the palate, Infernal Ascension is lush and full-bodied. It opens with bold flavors of mango, candied citrus, and pulpy pineapple, followed by a soft wave of coconut and melon. The mouthfeel is smooth, almost velvety, with just enough carbonation to keep it from feeling heavy. Despite the 8% ABV, there’s virtually no alcohol burn. A restrained bitterness creeps in toward the finish, balancing the sweetness without disrupting the juicy flow. It’s a masterclass in hop saturation and balance.
Where to Find It
I picked up Infernal Ascension at the Paphos Beer Festival 2025, where Radical Way Brewing was showcasing their freshest creations. If you’re in Cyprus or Greece, keep an eye out at local beer shops or festivals—this one is worth chasing down while it’s still in rotation.
Final Verdict: 4.5 out of 5
Radical Way Brewing’s Infernal Ascension is a standout Double NEIPA that combines visual allure, explosive aroma, and layered hop complexity into one dangerously drinkable package. It’s the kind of beer that satisfies both hopheads and hazy IPA newcomers alike. My only regret? Not grabbing a second can.
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