Dank IPA

This beer was judged as an American IPA (21A). This beer has a caramel malt, very light citrus, and mild tropical fruit in the aroma. There are also hints of alcohol aromas as well. It’s color is golden to pale copper, very clear with an off-white head that lingers. The hops dominate the flavor with a big fruity quality, most prominently grapefruit and mango. The bitterness is also significant, though the malt expression balances it nicely without being sugary sweet or cloying. Some malt graininess is also noticeable, almost with a rye-like expression in the background. The finish is malty and hoppy at the same time, though some herbal hop flavor lingers. The mouthfeel is medium with adequate carbonation to lend a slight carbonic astringency that also helps to balance the big malt and hop characteristics. A little alcoholic heat is also noticed in the finish. Overall, this is a very well-done IPA with a more modern and tropical hop expression that is nicely balanced with just enough malt character and complexity to help set it apart in a very big field of IPA options.