Coronado Brewing Company Guava Islander Tropical IPA American IPA at 7% ABV | 65 IBU (C$9.29 at Thumbprint Craft Beer Market, 650 ml, packaged on 11-Jan-2017, acquired 27-May-2017, reviewed 27-May-2017)
Appearance: slightly hazy pale gold with three fingers of fluffy ivory head, excellent retention and chunky, soapy lacing. (4/5) Aroma: vinous white grape, tropical fruit, citrus, crackery malt, earth, pine. (7/10) Taste: moderate sweet, moderate-high bitter. (7/10) Palate: medium body, moderate carbonation, drying mild bitter and slightly astringent finish. (3/5)
Guava? If you say so. Personally, I’m getting more of a vinous white grape must, layered on top of the “usual suspects” starts-with-C hops, mediated by a little melon rind-like tropical fruit and crackery pale malt. Gotta say, if I’m being totally honest, I’m a fair bit less than impressed with Coronado after the three I tried this evening. Technically and structurally they’re fine (generally speaking, pretty as hell) but the flavours and balance leave much to be desired. Gee, who could’ve expected something coming from California to be pretty, but without much substance? (14/20)
7/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
