The Community of Scholars
Root + Branch Brewing

 

 

L: Hazy yellow in appearance. Looks full, hazy and bright at the same time. Nearly perfectly opaque with a nice stark-white dollop of head that resides on top and sets up residence. A nice hearty ring bonds around the perimeter, with streaks of sudsy lacing clinging to the edge of the glass. As a whole, the beer looks great.
S: Amazing. Before I started to read about the beer, I could't help but wonder how there is so much raw and pithy orange in the aroma. It all makes sense now that I know it was brewed with orange peel. I don't pick up on much honey per-say, but there is an underlying sweetness that adds a welcome layer of complexity. Fruit aromas are orange, lemon, and apricot, with a nice earthy lemongrass hop profile. Orange dominates the aroma profile.
T: Really great. The orange peel hogs the stage yet again, but the wildflower honey adds a nice subtle sweetness on the finish. To me, the honey seems to have taken the place of lactose (which is common amongst IPAs these days), but does an even better job at adding the right touch of sweetness. The finish is sweet but not over done, with a nice citrusy and floral finish that carries over to the after taste. The more it warms, the more honey you start to get.
F: Soft, creamy and full. Just as I would hope from an oated IPA. The carbonation is a little on the lower end of moderate, but man it works here.
O: At first, I was liking it, but I am increasingly enjoying it more and more with each sip. The honey is really starting to shine once that chill has come off, meshing wonderfully with the orange peel. Don't think I could ask for more from this. It's unique and well crafted. I am very glad to have tried and would drink again/recommend. Cheers!