Common Sense Black IPA
Grateful Hands Brewing

(4.0) A: Near pitch black with a very tall light mocha coloured head that is both puffy and creamy. Thick lacing as this slowly recedes after sitting atop for a long while.

(4.0) S: Very potent aroma. Lush citrus fruits, pine, vanilla, cola-soda, and underlying herbal elements. Aroma is more hop forward with minimal roasted malt detected. Regardless, still very good.

(3.75) T: Citrus pith, lemon zest, piney, subdued roasted malt (light coffee bean), and a rooty/herbal-cola taste. Citrus focused with nice accompanying flavours. Very dry with a steady bitterness that isn’t overpowering.

(3.5) M: Lighter bodied with a moderate carbonation. Creamy with ample slickness. Would prefer a more substantial mouthfeel in terms of body and texture.

(3.75) D: Quite a good black IPA that I would pick up again. A hop-forward variation of the style that is well done for what it is. Aroma is bold and enticing, and the taste isn’t too bad either.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

22oz bottle purchased as a single from somewhere in the Middlebury/Burlington area.

Poured into an imperial pint glass, formed a 1/4" tan head over the clear burgundy brew. Head holds well, with lasting lace. Aroma is roasty malts and to a lesser extent citrus hops.

Taste also starts roasty, with citrus starting in the middle, and cruising on through the close. However, there is a slightly noticeable undercurrent of tart or sour that doesn't belong. Mouthfeel is smooth, and drinkability is pretty easy. Will give this one another try to see if the tartness was a one-off issue.