Alpha Abstraction Vol. 6

Alpha Abstraction Vol. 6 by Wild Leap Brew Co. is a Double IPA and is being evaluated as such by the current BJCP guidelines for that category (BJCP 2015 Category 22A).

For a Double IPA, the hop aroma is a bit muted overall but a unique blend of ripe mango and cantaloupe harmonize well with the underlying bready malt. There is a fresh and delicate floral hop attribute that emerges as the beer warms that is reminiscent of rose/rose water. The malt is buried beneath the hop aroma and a clean fermentation is evident. The beer is dark yellow and is hazy to the point of being opaque. The off-white head is dense with incredible staying power. The flavor is a nice surprise after a somewhat disappointing aroma – high hop flavor with bright top notes of mango and freshly squeezed orange juice in the base. Hop bitterness is restrained for a Double IPA but aids in overall drinkability. There’s a touch of sweetness in the finish which also may help drinkability but makes it a bit odd for the style. The mouthfeel is pleasant – medium-bodied with moderate carbonation, zero hop astringency, zero alcohol warmth, and a touch of creaminess.

With the hop character, low bitterness, intense haze, and touch of sweetness, this beer is more indicative of what the Brewers Association has classified as Juicy/Hazy Double IPA rather than a traditional IPA. That being said, one of the most important aspects of either of these styles is aroma and this beer could use a boost in that department. An enjoyable beer for those that lean towards big hop flavor with low bitterness.