Dark Crystal
Horse & Dragon Brewing Company

one of my favorite local breweries right now, everything they put out there seems so dialed in from a recipe and technical standpoint, its hard not to be impressed. had this on tap at asbury provisions, and its a fine pint indeed, with a nice dark but not too thick pure black base and an inch of lively just off white head, hissing and popping as it relaxes. not everyone like black ipa, but if you do, you will be a fan of this one, its classic in its complexion, everything you would want in the style. a very northwestern high alpha and piney hop profile, really assertive and fresh, but careful not to run into bitterness double jeopardy with the natural bitterness of the dark roasted barley. there is a fine balance and stopping point for the two, and i think its perfect for what i like in the style. lots of roast on the malt, not too much of anything in the middle to sweeten it up, and just a medium body to it, not too heavy at all. it could have a little more pep in the carbonation, i feel like it settled out quickly, but it doesnt bother me much. i love the piney resinous hops in the finish, and they linger long with the roast. not enough good examples of this style in our market right now, so this was a welcome drink, well done again by horse and dragon!