New Belgium Brewing Company Rampant American Double / Imperial IPA at 8.5% ABV (C$8.50 from Sundance Wine Market, 650 ml, no bottle date or best before)
Pours clear pale amber with two fingers of dense off-white head, good retention and excellent lacing. (4/5) Nose is citrus and pine resin, caramel malt, floral, mild stone fruit. (7/10) Taste is moderate sweet, moderately strong bitter, mild pepper spice. (7/10) Medium body and slightly oily texture, moderate carbonation, lingering bitter and slightly peppery finish. (4/5)
Big and beefy, but without the degree of malt forwardness I often associate with some IIPA’s. Initially decently well-balanced between the hops and the malt, with the big hops taking over in a lingering bitter and peppery finish. I’d like brighter citrusy hops, personally, but quite serviceable as it stands. (15/20)
7.5/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
