American Garage
Ruby Beach Brewing

This was another beer that I picked up at the Winn-Dixie in Fernandina Beach, Florida when I was down that at the tail end of last year. Never had anything from Ruby Beach before but anything that was proud to be part of the Jacksonville craft beer movement would easily be on the radar for me and thankfully, this did the area proud as it was a lively, bright take on the style that was quite fitting for the Sunshine State!

Waxy, golden, and full of fine bubbles, this was pleasant to look at down to the frothy head that topped it off and the webbed lacing it left behind - even if it wasn't terribly full or extensive. Lots of floral notes, deep citrus, and orange blossom honey in the nose as the taste closely followed suit. Caramel, subtle pine, and earthy hops came through in the taste as none in particular were strong, as they were all enduring until the last sip. Like the Mocama brew I had before this, it felt very left coast but with a Florida take on the style that would pair perfectly with a humid day on the beach or on a humid afternoon with thunderheads brewing all around.

So much Citra to be had here as it lent itself to a Sunshine State feel that took me back to IPA's from California that got me into beer many, many years ago. Some haze, malt, and a hint of wheat gave it more body as the waxy feel was also subdued here. No legible date was visible on the can although this held up well and had a lively carbonation to it that kept things lively and fresh. Loved this label design as it was pure Jacksonville, down to the Main Street Bridge being in the background. This was easily worthy of being Ruby Beach's flagship offering!

 

 

 

 

On tap at the brewery and served in a standard shaker. The beer is a chill hazed gold with orange highlights.

I like the aroma of citrus, pine and something floral.

The taste is pleasantly biter with resin, grapefruit, caramel malts and something a touch earthy.

The mouth is yeoman like, oily and coating.

This is a nice IPA that I could drink on a regular basis.

On tap at the brewpub. 7.0% ABV
Lightly hazy deep amber with a small head.
This IPA has good but average or slightly weak hops in the nose, plenty of hops in the lavor, and very subdued bitterness due to the generous malt load. Hints of caramel show up with the hops. Easy drinking with well hidden alcohol.

Great IPA with just enough hops

Best IPA I have tasted in years! Very quality brewed... It is a must try.