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Michael McGuire's picture

Slap Fight

May, 2016
Judges Rating: 
92
Aroma: 
21 / 24
Appearance: 
6 / 6
Flavor: 
38 / 40
Mouthfeel: 
9 / 10
Overall Impression: 
18 / 20

This American IPA poured a pretty orange color with a thick, creamy and well-retained white head. The aroma evinced plenty of malt and citrusy hops -- as expected for the style. An initial whiff of animal mustiness proved very transitory. The taste led off with those hops and fruity esters followed quickly with malt sweetness to balance. The finish was smooth leaving the palate pleasantly, rather than excessively, hoppy. The mouthfeel was that of a well-carbonated, medium-bodied hoppy ale lacking astringency and alcohol warmth. In a market seemingly flooded with average IPAs, this beer stands above many of its peers, brewed to style very well with inviting drinkability.