This Doble West Coast Black IPA represents a powerful marriage between a tropical West Coast IPA and a robust Russian Imperial Stout. It delivers an intense sensory experience where high-intensity aromas of tropical fruit and pine meet the deep, dark roasted character of chocolate and coffee. Despite its obsidian appearance, the beer maintains the aggressive hopping and high bitterness characteristic of a Double IPA. The 9% alcohol is well-integrated, providing a smooth warmth that complements the dry finish. It successfully bridges the gap between resinous hop punch and the complex, dark grain depth of a world-class stout.
Appearance.Opaque, deep ebony black (40+ SRM); features a dense, persistent tan head with excellent lacing.
Aroma.High intensity hop aroma featuring prominent tropical fruit, citrus, and resinous pine. A supportive background of dark malt provides notes of cocoa and toasted grain. Low fruity esters and a noticeable but clean alcohol presence.
Taste.Strong tropical and citrus hop flavors dominate the initial palate, supported by a firm malt foundation of dark chocolate and light roasted coffee. High bitterness is aggressive but smooth, leading to a dry finish. The aftertaste is long and lingering with a mix of resinous hops and roasted grain.
Mouthfeel.Medium-full body with a smooth, velvety texture. Moderate carbonation and a noticeable, well-integrated alcohol warmth that lacks any harsh solvent characteristics.