Alpha Abstraction Vol. 20 by Wild Leap Brew Co. was judged as BJCP Category 22A, Double IPA. Viewed in light of the rise in various specialty IPAs -- especially New England-style Hazy IPAs -- the Double IPA is a throwback to simpler times in the mid-to-late aughts when scaling up an IPA recipe to be stronger and hoppier was novel. It’s a straightforward beer to judge, with “intense” being the key descriptor. Still, these beefy beers should be neither malty like a barleywine nor bone dry like a tripel.

Alpha Abstraction has a strong, bright hop aroma with lemon and other citrus characteristics. It is a milky yellow color with a substantial white head. This beer’s bitterness is low for style, measuring at a moderate level. Its hop flavor is peppery and its malt flavor is clean with a touch of sweetness. Carbonation is high and creates a soft, fluffy texture. After letting this beer sit for a few minutes, its strength becomes more apparent in the aroma. Overall, Alpha Abstraction doesn’t have the hop intensity of a classic version of the style, but it still fits nicely in the realm between IPA and hazy IPA. With its peppery hop character, it is even reminiscent of a hoppy Belgian ale.