Since Google announced to the world in February that they were searching for a community in which to test a new high-speed internet network called Google Fiber that promises to deliver speeds 100x faster than what most Americans currently see, some cities have been trying different tactics to convince Google they are a worthy choice. The deadline to submit bids was this past Friday, and TechFlash reports that Seattle has interest but does not seem to be in the top tier of possibilities.

Portland may be one of the front-runners, and Hopworks Urban Brewery has just released the new Gigabit IPA as part of the city’s effort to land the test network. Sounds like a great idea to me. Get the decision makers to have a few pints, and then talk them into coming to Portland. Genius. According to the announcement on Taplister:

Described by Hopwork’s Brewer Ben Love, “this fresh & edgy IPA honors Portland’s new gigabit network project pioneering a connected future with Google fiber-to-home.  Embrace the bandwidth with a massive NW hop aroma, with rich citrus and pine accents aggressively balanced with clear malt caramel flavor, and a deep, clean, satisfying finish. From Hopworks, the world’s first carbon-neutral artisnal brewery.”

Kerry Finsand at Taplister had a hand in selecting Hopworks to brew the IPA. According to Kerry:

This Thursday at 2pm Hopworks will be hosting a special media preview offering the first taste of Portland’s new Gigabit IPA.  The event will be in the brewery and representatives from the project, the brewery and the city will be on hand.  Then on Friday Justin Kistner of Beer and Blog will be hosting the public release at the Green Dragon with the Hopworks team and their beloved bike bar.