“Hoptimum is a hurricane of whole-cone hop flavor. Hopped, dry hopped and torpedoed for incredible hop flavor and complexity, Hoptimum is the pinnacle of whole-cone hoppiness and the biggest Imperial IPA we have ever produced. It features resinous hop varieties: Magnum, Chinook, Simcoe and a new experimental hop variety exclusive to Sierra Nevada. With intense hop flavors and aromas of grapefruit rind, pine, herbs and tropical fruit, Hoptimum is an aggressive drinking experience. Originally created as part of our Beer Camp program, Hoptimum throws down the gauntlet to all other IPAs”.
Another cracker from this brilliant American brewery. Served in an IPA glass the copper red pour constructed a 1 and a half finger beige head that settles to a thin covering on top. Minimal lacing. Citra, Chinook and Simcoe hops are the catalyst behind this massive hop-forward aroma with big bitter grapefruit and crisp pine overtones. Citrus peel and tropical fruits add extra zestiness while the faint whiff of booze and grainy malts gives it even more dimension. In the mouth it’s dry and astringent with medium carbonation. Medium-full body. The 100 IBU provides the huge, aggressive hop dryness upfront, enough to suck every last drip of saliva from your tongue. A nice dose of zesty orange, resin and pine is toned down by a slight malty presence in the mid-palate. A slight alcohol warming and a hint of citrus rind to finish. Great duration, the tongue fights for any last drop of saliva. 10.4% ABV makes for a sipping beer only. Big, crisp and hoppy imperial IPA, like the torpedo’s bigger, meaner brother. Exceptional stuff (if you like tonnes of hops that is).