Resinous, herbal and slightly woody hops mix with mild caramel malt to provide a clean and inviting aroma to this Double IPA. The color is light copper with a slightly off-white head that is firm and resilient as a thin layer across the entire surface of the pour. The flavor is boldly hop-forward with hints of mint, tropical fruits and fresh hop resins. A well-balanced (for a Double IPA) caramel and base malt flavor supports the generous hops and provides a good, sweet and malty backdrop that is not excessive. There are no noticeable yeast characteristics, but the finish is both bitter from hops and sweet from generous malts in this obviously big beer. The hop bitterness carries for some time after each sip. The mouthfeel is medium-full, but not quite cloying from the unfermented sugars. Carbonation is firm, providing some palate complexity that helps mask and balance the residual sugars. Overall, this is a very good Double IPA that is flirting with barleywine territory with its impactful malt character that makes it more of a sipping beer than a drinking beer. With that said, would I recommend it if someone was bellying up to the bar with an interest in something special and on the hoppy side? You betcha!
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Molten Lava
Description
Molten is the most aggressive IPA in our little family, yet it somehow manages a considerable balance. Orange, pineapple, and fruited pine trip over themselves trying to push their way through the starting gate. Once on the run, the assertiveness evens out into juicy citrus and remains light on the tongue. For the size, this one dries out and drinks easy. Tread lightly, my friends.
Judges Review
Aroma:
23 / 24
Appearance:
6 / 6
Flavor:
36 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20