Aspen Brewing Company Independence Pass Ale American IPA at 7% ABV (2015 Craft Beer Advent Calendar Day #3, 355 ml, no bottle date or best before, reviewed 3-Dec-2015)
Appearance: clear pale amber with two fingers of pillowy ivory head, excellent retention and good lacing. (4/5) Aroma: citrus, floral, pine, pale malt, perfume, black tea. (8/10) Taste: moderate sweet, moderate-high bitter. (7/10) Palate: medium body, soft carbonation, off-dry bitter and warming finish. (4/5)
Tastes good, but actually smells a whole bunch better. I find the carbonation just a touch low for the style – it’s kind of riding the line between an IPA and a D/IPA, in my opinion (which isn’t a bad thing, by any means). The beefier ABV is indicated by the slightly heavier feel in the body and a slight edge and warming on the finish. A little more carbonation might act to lift the body just a touch and address that issue. (15/20)
7.5/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
