Judge’s Review: 96 Rating – Hopzilla by Lawson’s Finest Liquids

Double IPA | Seasonal | United States

By Pat Mulloy

Judges Rating: 96
Aroma: 22
Appearance: 5
Flavor: 40
Mouthfeel: 10
Overall Impression: 19

Hopzilla by Lawson’s Finest Liquids was judged as BJCP Style 22A, double IPA.
There are a lot of double IPAs out there – this one stands out for the quality of the dry hopping, which delivers rich flavor without harshness or sharpness, making this beer a double IPA that hopheads will fill their fridge with and neophytes will find quite approachable. Cracking the can releases big resiny hop nose followed by citrus, melon and tropical fruit. Clean, neutral malt supports the dominating hops. The flavors follow the aromas, balanced by a moderate grapefruit bitterness, which packs a delightful punch without harshness or sharpness. The medium-low malt provides a balancing sweetness that accents and supports the hop flavors while not getting in their way. A mild sweetness leads to a long bitter tail that pleasantly lingers. A medium-bodied creamy smoothness makes this a delight to drink as a clean and smooth alcohol warmth slowly creeps up on you.