Unholy Island
Woodland Empire Ale Craft

Draft at Woodland. Clear golden pour with small white, foamy head, lacing. Fruity aroma, tropical notes. Taste is mango, light dryness. Oat whip adds some nice texture.

i thought by them designating this a winter ipa that it would either be stronger or maltier than most, but it is neither, maybe it was just brewed in the winter, which makes sense but also doesnt, like i dont get the reason for calling it a winter ipa specifically, but i really like the beer, one of my favorite hoppy ones from these guys in a long time. clear and golden, unexpectedly pale to me, neither clear nor intentionally hazy, super creamy headed with great retention and obviously a lot of carbonation. the nose is wonderful here, a modern hop profile but not overly familiar beyond a dry hopped mosaic vibe, i get white wine and yellow peach behind that, light pine, weed, and noble spiciness, cool and somewhat subtle, almost more pale ale, all dry hops too mostly, low bitter it seems. i love the grain feel of this, and appreciate it right away, must have some oats in it, maybe raw wheat, its pure silk and not just texture, some dry cereal organic earthiness to it as well, making it both balanced and smooth, while also allowing it to stay dry. the hops cling to this, start early, and stay through the finish, canned pineapple, mandarin orange, lemongrass, and jasmine flowers, really fresh and really good, clean ferment too. great build to this, everything so intentional and in its place, highly drinkable, and a beer they should frankly consider bringing into the fulltime lineup, its superb!