Big A Double IPA
Smuttynose Brewing Co.
Story by:
Chris Guest
Double IPA
Year-Round
New Hampshire
United States
Judges Ratings 93
Aroma: 22 / 24
Flavor: 38 / 40
Appearance: 5 / 6
Mouthfeel: 10 / 10
Overall Impression: 18 / 20
Description
Smuttynose’s Double IPA debuted to rave reviews from beer drinkers and the New York Times in 2004. In the intervening years, Big A has evolved and continues to win awards and recognition such as Men’s Journal’s Top 25 Beers of 2006, and CAMRA’s 2010 Michael Jackson Award at the GBBF.
Beverage Profile
ABV: 8.20%
IBUs: 99
Served at: (50 – 55˚ F)
Hops: Magnum. Bravo, Zeus, Saphir, Bravo, Falconer’s Flight, Citra
Malts: Two-Row, English Pale Ale, Acidulated
Judges Review
By James Link
Judges Ratings 93
Aroma: 22 / 24 / 24
Flavor: 38 / 40 / 40
Appearance: 5 / 6 / 6
Mouthfeel: 10 / 10 / 10
Overall Impression: 18 / 20 / 20
This pale, orange-colored ale was slightly cloudy and supported a medium-white head that held up nicely. Lots of fresh hop aromas are manifest here. Most prevalent are the citrus fruit and pine resin fragrances, which are accompanied by a Caramel malt sweetness.
The hop flavor was assertive – as is typical for the style. The complexity of clean hops suggests an impressive hop blend, which produced a citrus rind, piney and floral character. A slight acidity was incorporated into the mix along with a sweet malt presence, which added to its singular hop complexity. The body was smooth and well-conditioned with alcoholic warmth evident yet not overwhelming.
This is a fine example of a Double IPA and should be considered in the top tier of beers brewed in this style.
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