Judge’s Review: 88 Rating – 22nd Anniversary Imperial IPA by Coronado Brewing Co.

Double IPA | Limited Release | United States

By Nelson Crowle

Judges Rating: 88
Aroma: 21
Appearance: 6
Flavor: 36
Mouthfeel: 8
Overall Impression: 17

22nd Anniversary Imperial IPA by Coronado Brewing Co. was evaluated as a BJCP 2015 22A (Double IPA). Pours a very hazy yellowish light gold with a large poofy white head of tiny bubbles that sticks around for a while and slowly fades. The initial aroma is tropical fruit (passion fruit and pineapple) and hints of tangerine, with a light fresh baked bread background note. The first sip is big and fruity – again with passion fruit, also papaya and mango notes, with a Jolly Rancher type of artificial orange (not in a bad way!), with a very light bread crust malt note that supports the moderate bitterness. The alcohol of this Imperial IPA is very clean and almost hidden behind the fruity notes – but there is some alcohol warmth as you swallow.  Medium light in body with moderate carbonation, this is a relatively light beer with fruity and alcohol notes, and muted hops – not your typical in-your-face double IPA.  A double IPA is usually a sipper, but this one, with the light malt backbone, would go really well with sweet and sour or Chinese orange chicken.