Black Soul RyePA from Low Road Brewing was judged according to the 2015 BJCP Style Guidelines, Category 21B – Specialty IPA.

A fragrant nose of roasted malt mixed with spicy rye, pine and resin hops greet me at first whiff. The beer is a quite clear dark brown with dark amber highlights and boasts a large, beige rocky head. Light chocolate and rich coffee malt aromas round out the first few sniffs. The flavor is medium-high pine and resin hops, light grapefruit hops, bold and rich chocolate and roasted malt with light roasty malt bitterness. Earthy and spicy rye malt is light but present.

A clean fermentation yields a beer devoid of fruity esters, which is perfectly acceptable here. There are, however, some dark fruit notes that are malt-derived: figs, dates and prunes. This lends a nice complexity to the beer and invites further contemplation. A medium body supports moderate carbonation and there is a light and pleasant alcohol warmth. The beer finishes with a rich malt flavor and light lingering sweetness that is dry overall.

This beer would pair well with a hearty burger topped with dank blue cheese and caramelized onions.