Devil's Back Bone
Karlsson Brewing

The folks at Karlsson’s call this an imperial IPA. I don’t. I call it a barleywine. As an imperial IPA Devil’s Back Bone is disappointing for its lack of assertive hop identity. As a barleywine, it’s a real treat. A short-lived but luxurious aroma of fruited malts sets the stage for a similarly fruity taste alive with strawberry, plum, and a few mango-like esters. Though Back Bone does project a bittering statement, the hop element is nowhere to be found in the flavor or smell. It is opaque garnet with a light dusting of sediment.

Devil's Back Bone is presently a rotational offering though it may emerge as a year-round treat. Rumor has it that a batch has been aging in Kentucky bourbon barrels for several months and will be released this spring. Sounds good. Meanwhile, if you approach this ale as the imperial IPA it claims to be, you’ll probably be disappointed. Think of it as a barleywine and enjoy it to the fullest.