Full Bale Ale
Alibi Ale Works

solid ipa done with whole cone vista hops when i had it, but i think the hops might change from batch to batch, this is a hop i really dig, and cool to taste it in its whole cone form, uncommon for vista so far i reckon. this is a nice beer, not over the top hoppy actually, somewhat relaxed and drinkable, almost like a strong pale ale, with a nice contribution from the malt here as well, one of the better beers we had in here at their truckee spot overall, but lots of cool stuff on their menu! just a bit of color to this, short of copper but deeper than golden with an average white head on top and consistent carbonation as i sip this down. aroma is a little muted to me, lightly almost noble hops with that grassy and spicy thing going on, but also a light lemongrass and berry brightness, vista on full display, ever so slightly green, with nutty but not sweet malt support, lightly english to me for a flash, good balance and freshness, and the flavor follows, with an assertive up front hop kick than then releases in layers, berries, pine, good indica flower, and an almost rye character, things like clover and dried orange also present, pretty interesting really. the malt is sturdy and supports the hops well, stays off dry, but brings some richness to this, good minerality as well, and there is some bitterness on the swallow. really pleasant drinker, sneakily complex, a cool showcase of this hop and overall a unique brew that i really enjoyed.