Zero Zero

Zero Zero by Arches Brewing is being evaluated as a Double IPA (BJCP 2015 Guidelines Category 22A) – this would be a candidate for a Double New England-style/Hazy/Juicy/New School IPA if the category existed.

The beer is a darker color than most examples of DIPA one normally sees – dirty blonde and approaching light amber. This could be from some oxidation already set in but the aroma gives no indication of that. The color is a bit striking, but it is still within the parameters for the style. The aroma has a fruit cup characteristic featuring mandarin orange, pineapple and peach. The aroma, while pleasant, is subtle overall for this style, which should feature more hop prominence.

The flavor is comprised of complex hop flavor (tropical fruit punch with a splash of orange juice), moderate hop bitterness, white bread and a presence of alcohol that is well-balanced within the beer. The hop bitterness is tame for the style and makes this beer straddle the line between American IPA and Double IPA. There is no hop-derived astringency or harshness and the mouthfeel is soft with a medium-high body.

This is an enjoyable beer even though it doesn’t quite hit all the marks for a Double IPA. More hop aroma and flavor are needed to make this beer a true showcase for hops. In some regards, this drinks more like an American IPA with a touch more alcohol presence and that is not necessarily a bad thing. Many DIPAs are unbalanced beers: too bitter, too boozy and too harsh. This beer was balanced in every regard resulting in superior drinkability.