Blindman Brewing Fresh Hop – American IPA at 5.0% ABV (C$5.35 at Collective, 473 ml, no packaging date or best before, acquired 30-Oct-2023, reviewed 9-Dec-2023)
Appearance: clear pale gold with two fingers of rocky pale amber head, excellent retention and moderate soapy lacing. (5/5) Aroma: grass, light tropical fruit, hint of cereal grains. (7/10) Taste: moderate-high sweet, moderate-high bitter. (7/10) Palate: medium body, moderate carbonation, sweetish lingering bitter finish. (3/5)
I mean, it’s punching above its weight, that’s for sure. That’s to say, it’s certainly hoppy, and it’s got a respectable bitter bite through the finish, making it feel like it’s a lot bigger than it is. The problem (for me at least) is that the hops are super traditional grassy, with just a hint of tropical fruit. And yeah, that’s a personal preference thing, but I’m the person doing the review, so there. And picking another personal nit, it also tastes a bit on the sweet side for my preference. So, while it’s undoubtedly good, it just doesn’t move the needle to great for me. (14/20)
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7/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
