As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Bell's Two Hearted is not a West Coast IPA. While it does use Centennial hops from the Pacific Northwest, which is a characteristic of many West Coast IPAs, there are several factors that differentiate Two Hearted from the typical West Coast style.
First and foremost, the name itself gives a clue to its origins. Two Hearted is named after the Two Hearted River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. This immediately suggests that the beer is rooted in the Midwest, rather than the West Coast.
In terms of flavor and aroma, Two Hearted IPA showcases a unique hop profile. It is bursting with hop aromas ranging from pine to grapefruit, which is achieved through massive hop additions in both the kettle and the fermenter. However, the hop character of Two Hearted is not as intense or aggressive as what you would typically find in a West Coast IPA. While West Coast IPAs often feature bold, resinous, and citrusy hop flavors, Two Hearted has a more balanced and approachable hop profile.
Additionally, the malt backbone of Two Hearted plays a significant role in distinguishing it from a West Coast IPA. West Coast IPAs tend to have a lighter, drier malt base that allows the hops to take center stage. In contrast, Two Hearted has a slightly more pronounced malt sweetness that provides a nice balance to the hop bitterness. This malt presence gives the beer a fuller body and a smooth mouthfeel, which is not as common in West Coast IPAs.
Furthermore, the overall brewing philosophy and culture surrounding Two Hearted is not in line with the West Coast IPA movement. Bell's Brewery, the maker of Two Hearted, is based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and has been brewing craft beer since 1985. They have a strong focus on traditional brewing techniques and creating well-balanced beers that can be enjoyed by a wide range of beer enthusiasts. This differs from the West Coast IPA movement, which is often associated with a more experimental and aggressive approach to brewing.
Bell's Two Hearted is not a West Coast IPA. While it may share some similarities in terms of hop origin and flavor profile, it has its own distinct characteristics that set it apart. The beer's Midwest roots, balanced hop profile, malt presence, and traditional brewing philosophy all contribute to its unique identity.