Hercules Double IPA

Like American Pale Ale and IPA, the Imperial IPA and Barleywine categories can get muddled. This beer tends toward a barleywine due to the aroma which is very malty with burnt caramel, toffee, and even some vinous, aged ale notes. The resinous, woody hops are more in a backup role. The burnt caramel notes come through in the flavor. Earthy, resinous hops are there, but only in backup to the malt and alcohol. The alcohol, far from harsh, provides some warmth. The finish is complex with both bitter and alcohol notes. Barleywine or Imperial IPA, this is a supremely drinkable big boy beer, with alcohol apparent, but not obtrusive.