Kiwi Double IPA

Kiwi Double IPA by Lawson’s Finest Liquids was evaluated under the BJCP 2015 guidelines as a Double IPA (style 22A). This beer pours a hazy deep gold with a big head of small- and medium-sized white bubbles, which slowly fades to a thin disk, leaving some nice Belgian lacing on the glass. There is a big tangerine citrus aroma with notes of green leafy herbaceousness along with gooseberries, with a moderate clean alcohol nose that gets your attention, and a fresh bread dough and crackery malt character. The flavor is of big, almost-in-your-face, but not overpowering delicious citrus fruit — primarily tangerine but with a moderate lemony character and a light freshly baked bread malt character that is just enough to support the huge hop presence. There are also moderate herbal notes and a low black pepper spiciness. A long lingering tangerine and tropical (including pineapple) finish is bracingly bitter but smooth. Hints of lemon zest also add to the huge fruity hop complexity. Featuring a medium body and moderate carbonation, the beer is effervescent with continuously rising bubbles for several minutes. This beer is a citrus fruit punch with the aroma and flavor turned up to 10. To pair with food, smoke up some dry-rubbed baby back ribs or a low-and-slow brisket with some spicy marinade — this world-class beer can stand up to a lot of spice.