When you hear the words "Hop Slam" the immediate expectation is of a brew with an overwhelming and one-dimensional hop character assault on the senses. In fact, while there is solid hop presence in this beer, it offers much more – delivering a well-crafted and delicious overall package.
Dank hop character is the dominant aspect of the aroma, but citrus and piney notes are also evident and deliver a nice aromatic complexity to this somewhat hazy, golden-colored brew with a fair off-white fine bubble head. There is also a light background of malt aroma with a touch of sweetness – this sweetness might be accentuated by the alcohol presence (it is a 10% ABV brew!) or by the added honey. The flavor packs a solid hit of bitterness along with piney, citrusy and dank hop characters. The moderate base malt backbone balances out the hop expression quite well. A clean alcohol note is also very evident and warming upon the swallow. The brew has a solid, medium body with a slightly sweet but not cloying finish. The aftertaste delivers a lingering marriage of hop and malt flavor and is dry enough to prepare the palate for the next flavorful sip.
Overall, this is a very impressive, well-balanced and extremely drinkable Double IPA.