Murky

North Peak Brewing Company’s Murky Oat IPA was judged as a BJCP category 21B, Specialty IPA, and this sample presents much like the name might suggest. The aroma starts with a husky, grainy quality that is followed by an earthy, musty funkiness that is not what one would expect. There are also hints of chocolate and a pithy grapefruit in the rear. The appearance is a hazy, slightly dull, deep golden color with a creamy off-white head that persists. The flavor continues with the pithy grapefruit coupled with a cracker-like or biscuit graininess, and an assertively earthy hop flavor and bitterness before finishing rather dry. The grain lingers on the tongue with an almost tea-like finish. It is crisp on the tongue with a medium-light body, moderate carbonation and astringency, and no noticeable alcohol notes. Overall, the husky graininess along with the assertive, earthy hopping makes this beer seem a bit out of balance.