Wiseman Brewing’s Mountain Calling IPA is being judged as an American IPA (2015 BJCP Category 21A). The commercial definition of this style has been widely interpreted but consistently is a showcase for New World/American hop varieties.
Moderate toast and a hint of dry roasted nuts first greet the drinker followed by a herbaceous, resinous hop character. The beer has an almost English character as demonstrated by the hint of the apple ester and the generous floral character. Typical citrus hop notes are largely absent.
Mountain Calling is a gorgeous beer. Brilliant clarity allows for the solid amber color to shine through beneath the tall stand of ivory foam.
The hop forward flavor features additional floral and resinous contributions with restrained orange and grapefruit. The malt is quite prominent for an American IPA with supportive toast, light nuts, and caramel. The dry finish with lingering pine allows the drinker to easily go back for the next sip. In addition, the moderate body with above average carbonation and smooth, warming alcohol at the back of the throat firmly place this beer in the American IPA category.
Mountain Calling IPA is a solid offering from Wiseman Brewing. The malt backbone is thoroughly supportive of the hop presentation which, for a contemporary American IPA, could be a bit more forward.