Hargreaves Hill ‘Kenneth – Son Of Zenneth’ IIPA

Rating:

18557188_695443563973125_2774018054784985824_n“Brewed with a relatively simple grist to promote hop balance and a stronger alcohol content to carry the classic North American hop charachters to the forefront. A homage to the elder statesmen of the craft beer scene in the USA.”

Served in an IPA glass. Kenneth pours quite a deep and dark honey with a couple of fingers worth emerging on top. Really well retained head that deposits a thick lace down the walls of the glass.
The nose absolutely pops! One of the first things we notice is this rich caramel malt sweetness at the base. Plenty of dank pine resins getting amongst the sugary toffee and butterscotch as the tropical cocktail fruits begin to come through once it settles. Starting to see a suggestion of flambèd orange and paw paw coming through too. Immaculate! Great depth and balance as well.
In the mouth it’s aggressive with the 8.2% ABV displaying a short and sharp cameo. An IBU of 65 is brilliantly negotiated by the soothing malts which provide a somewhat sticky texture. Medium-full body. Moderately carbonated.
It’s all about this harmonious balance between the chewy caramels and the tropical fruits upfront. Something a little biscuity creeping in before the bitter citrus is introduced midway. It’s all carried in to a drying finish that offers good length on the back palate.
It’s seriously difficult to fault this beer. It’s got oodles of character, it’s extremely well layered and it’s balanced like a beer on a barrel. Magnificent drop from this Victorian brewery.