BeerMKR Redwood IPA – American IPA at 7.3% ABV | 66 IBU (Initial Setup 31-Oct-2021, Pitch & Hop 1-Nov-2021, Dry Hop 6-Nov-2021, Transfer & Carb 16-Nov-2021, Reviewed 29-Nov-2021)
Appearance: slightly hazy medium amber with one fat finger of fine ivory head, good retention and moderate lacing. (4/5) Aroma: citrus, red berries, caramel, earthy pine. (7/10) Taste: moderate sweet, moderate-high bitter. (7/10) Palate: medium body, moderate carbonation, slightly sticky mildly warming finish. (3/5)
My second batch from the BeerMKR machine. I had issues with the BeerTap during my first batch, so for this effort I modified the tap with a ball lock post, allowing me to use a proper regulator. However, that new setup initially leaked on the CO2 side, so I had to make some adjustments, and probably ended up stirring up the settled trub more than was good. As far as the beer itself goes, I’d have to call it a solid “OK”. I’m not sure about the hop profile: it’s a bit muddled, and I’m getting something I’d have to call berries. It’s not objectionable in and of itself, so I’m leaning towards a slightly higher aroma grade. On the other hand, since I know what I hopped it with (Cascade and Centennial bittering, Centennial and Simcoe dry hopped) I’m not sure where that berry note is coming from, so I could go a point lower on aroma, to maybe half a point lower on overall score. It’s not bad overall, definitely no worse than a 6.5, and I wouldn’t hesitate to serve it to someone, but it’s certainly middle of the pack. I’m hoping my new kegging setup will give a better result with future batches. (14/20)
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