“Our IPA recalls a time when ales shipped from England to India were highly hopped to preserve their distinct taste during the long journey. The result, quite simply a hop lover’s dream. And this classic ale adds a fruity aroma, set off by a dry malt middle, to ensure that the long hop finish is one you’ll remember.”
Served in an IPA glass. Relatively clear amber pour with a finger of finely beaded foam on top. The head falls away a bit but still manages a spotty lace as it ebbs.
The nose is super malty with caramel, bread and semi sweet honey notes leading out. We’re detecting some of the more typical IPA characters like citrus, tropical fruits and pine but they’re discreet and seem happy to just sink in to the robust and sweet malts. Some earthy undertones with a light floral bouquet also coming through.
Much more of the same in flavour. We weren’t too game to call it on the nose but with one sip it’s obvious that it’s an English style IPA. Sweet and bready with light spicy, floral and earthy tones. Just a faint hint of pine and citrus here and there with a delicate herbal note on the flank. Mild finish with a dry, spicy and grassy hop profile sitting on the back end.
The texture is pretty well balanced. A well concealed 55 IBU and a lifted malt bill equates to an approachable mouth feel. Medium body and co2.
Certainly an English inspired IPA but what we like about it is that it’s slightly Americanised. Those subtle hints of pine, citrus and stonefruit puts a very low-key West Coast spin on the beer. Good but not great.