This formidable Double IPA is a vibrant celebration of Southern Hemisphere hops, showcasing an intense sensory profile driven by Galaxy, Ella, and Vic Secret. The experience opens with a powerful aromatic wave of passion fruit, peach, and citrus, underpinned by subtle pine and floral spice. On the palate, the aggressive 95 IBU bitterness is remarkably clean, slicing through a lean, cracker-like malt base. Flavors of pineapple and earthy anise evolve into a resinous, bone-dry finish. Despite its 9% ABV, the alcohol is smoothly integrated, providing a gentle warming backdrop to the explosive tropical and stone fruit character that defines this modern powerhouse.
Appearance.Pours a brilliant deep gold to light copper (8-10 SRM) with a large, persistent off-white head that leaves thick lacing. High clarity with a slight, fine-beaded effervescence.
Aroma.High intensity hop aroma featuring prominent passion fruit and citrus from Galaxy, coupled with pineapple and resinous pine from Vic Secret. Secondary notes of floral spice and star anise from Ella are present. Malt is low and neutral, providing a light crackery backdrop. A clean, soft alcohol warmth is perceptible.
Taste.An initial explosion of tropical fruit (pineapple, mango) and stone fruit flavors. The bitterness is very high and firm but lacks harshness, balanced by a low, unobtrusive bready malt character. Hop flavors shift toward resin and herbal spice in the mid-palate. The finish is very dry and crisp with a long, lingering bitterness and tropical fruit aftertaste.
Mouthfeel.Medium body with a smooth, velvety texture. Carbonation is medium-high, enhancing the dry finish. Noticeable but well-restrained alcohol warmth provides a pleasant glow without solventy heat. No hop-derived astringency.
Sensory Profile.
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