Batch 100
Dragoon Brewing Co.

 

Dark black, stout-like appearance, with heady tan foam. The aroma carries an intense mixture of roasted malt and pine dominant hops. Add in some citrus and touch of chocolate and you get a nice bouquet and excellent contrast between dark malts and bright hops.

The first sip reveals how bitter this beer really is. The chocolate sweetness hinted at in the aroma is played down and the sharp roast and pine-tingling hops build toward a lingering bitter finish. Quite an intense flavor, especially as the ABV seems very reasonable at 6.4%. The mouthfeel is really superb, nearly a porter-like thickness but velvety smooth and foams up slightly on the palate. A good level of carbonation to boot.

Labeled a Black IPA by the brewery, I really don't think that's the best title for any beer of this style. American Black Ale is a better descriptor, and this beer is truly a fine example. Intense, yet still maintaining a balance of flavors, the drinkability is outstanding. Recommended.