“Our Orange Vanilla Fathom India Pale Lager continues our quest for exploration. The piney and citrus hop aromas of our Fathom IPL combines with sweet orange and creamy vanilla – while staying true to classic lagering techniques. Brewed with a touch of nostalgia, it may remind you of a childhood treat, but this one is just for adults.”
Served in a beer tulip. Impenetrable black body with a finger of thick, foamy head on top. Retention is excellent, stubbornly holding up and casting a sheet of lace down the glass as it ebbs. The feature coffee and vanilla have been used to perfection here. Bold roasted coffee notes are reinforced by rich chocolate, toasty malts, cocoa and burnt toffee. What we absolutely love is the prudent use of vanilla. There’s enough to balance out the robust dark malts and coffee but it doesn’t overpower, just the right amount to tie it all together. Maybe a subtle hint of cinnamon in here too. Brilliant. They’ve absolutely nailed the aroma. The mouth feel provides a thick and hearty viscosity while the 60 IBU’s not only spruik the American disposition but adds another layer of complexity to this Porter. Medium-full in body. Again, brilliant. An explosion of flavour is detonated on the palate. Initially we get everything from coffee, roasted malt and chocolate to vanilla, hints of alcohol and an assertive bitterness that transitions nicely through the mid. A well rounded warmth from the 10% ABV bolsters the bitterness as roasted malts, coffee and a subtle vanilla sweetness leads in to a dry and bitter finish that goes the length on the back end. Impressive stuff here. From the pour right down to the finish this imperial porter is simply bang on. She’s rich, aromatic, full flavoured, at times aggressive and down right delicious. Kudos Ballast Point this is an outstanding drop.