Ruination IPA

From Stone’s humble Southern California beginnings back in 1996, Steve Wagner and Greg Koch have grown their operation into a craft beer powerhouse, producing some of the most widely recognized and sought-after beers anywhere. Ruination IPA is one such beer, boasting an incredible 100+ IBUs and loads of malt character. Deceptively light in its golden hue, this beer packs quite a punch. The second it hits the glass, this brew radiates wave after wave of citrusy hop aromas, promising an intensely bitter and hoppy experience. While some judges keyed in on the distinct tangerine and grapefruit notes, Tim complimented the beer on its conifer pollen-like perfume, likening it to Sitka spruce flowers in springtime. As with all classic examples of the style, Ruination assaults the palate with an almost stinging bitterness, tamed somewhat by the expertly layered sweet malt and floral hop flavors. Punishing though it may be, both in bitterness and alcohol content, Ruination is a perilously quaffable brew. Nick peered down below the massive hop bitterness and found comforting fruity esters that reminded him of Meyer lemon zest, peaches and ripe cantaloupe, all working to keep the burgeoning hop character somewhat in check. Seek out this beer, but be warned that once you start on Ruination your palate will succumb and you’ll spend the rest of the evening right where you are.