Bare Knuckle IPA
Brawling Bear Brewing

This brewery, which is a two-minute drive from me, has been open for about two years; however, this has been the first time I've tried them out. Because of the pandemic, and a loosening of some burdensome regulation, they now deliver to my front door. Poured from a can, Bare Knuckle is an East Coast IPA that begins with a heavy froth that slowly settles into a semi-hazy amber body. It has a modicum of lacing around the rim. There is little nose. The palate detects a minor bitterness beneath a pine and grass bite. It is light and crispy and easy to quaff. It is nice - if not too remarkable. I will always support my local brewers. Decent beer that I am finally glad to drink.

 

 

 

 

As a Gaithersburg resident, I guess I would consider this my "local" beer now that they opened up a few months back. Hope they open up a brewpub soon. This is an impressive start: big thick head and swarthy lace. Balanced nose with pine and sweetness.

I am not sure if it is my imagination, but I do like the "juicy" quality noted on the can. This is hoppy but balanced and very quaffable. Well done, BB, I look forward to your next offerings.

Swear I reviewed this beer in 2017...

Pale amber color, a bit cloudy. Pours big white head, tightly bubbled and lingering

Big hop nose with a nice blend of earthy and pine with some fruit

A mix of malt sweetness and big hop flavors (pineapple, pine) up front. Nice bitterness in the finish - a bit more old school than new school with the assertive bitterness.

Medium body and carbonation. No astringency, and no alcoholic warming. Nicely mellow on the tongue

I like it as an IPA, but don't think it lives up to the can labeling. It is nothing new, and definitely isn't a "juicy IPA" Just a solid IPA with a hint of sweetness before the bitterness kicks in.

 

 

Poured into a pint glass, i am looking at a very attractive hazy golden blonde! The white half inch creamy head makes her even more desirable. The nose promises citrus and floral aroma. Tasting the beer, I feel a wonderful balance between the hop and malt, without the over the top bitterness so often found in IPA's. The medium bodied beer has juicy balanced hops to a sweet malty finish. Very drinkable!!! This is an amazing debut from a new brewery. I am impressed!!!