Mikkeller ‘1000 IBU’ Imperial IPA

Rating:

27751832_812204988963648_2236216437895687488_n“Brewed as an experiment of how much hops can put in a beer. 1000 IBU has a theoretical 1000 International Bitterness Units and is (of course) dominated by hops!”

Glassware: IPA glass.

Appearance: Gorgeous mahogany hue with a big puffy three finger head. It maintains its shape and leaves a smattering of lace as we hook in.

Aroma: Thick, saturated and sweet-ish. Not really the big hop bomb we were expecting it’s rather malty sweet and dank AF. Getting overtones of rotting leaves, tree bark, stewed fruits, treacle, orange peel, mandarin and pine resin. Sturdy caramel malt structure at the base. Strong booze presence as well…stings the nostrils!

Flavour: Palate-wreckingly brilliant. She comes on super strong with rich and sweet malts before a tidal wave of hop bitterness and grapefruit acidity washes over. A sharp booze burn digs in midway with paw paw and papaya carrying through in to the ultra dry and bitter finish.

Mouthfeel: Dry, aggressive and uber bitter – really living up to the name. Medium-full body with good co2.

Overall: Does well to follow through with the hype. The integral part is the robust malt profile, without that it’d be close to undrinkable. The novelty factor is excellent but that’s where it ends, any more than one and you’ll be buzzing and your palate would need repairing.