Third Anniversary Triple IPA
Western Collective

i have been super high on their hoppy stuff of late, the hazy series has been awesome, the best of the west stuff also mostly excellent, but this one didnt do much for me, seems big for the sake of being big, and is sort of underflavored and generic overall, at least in my opinion. looks a little thick, not overly hazy or murky, but like its obviously viscous even without that, very short ring of white head from the tap, just doesnt look super polished. the nose and taste are fine, the hops seem fresh, but everything about this is overly familiar already. subtle juiciness like canned pineapple and orange from concentrate, but a lot of malt here too, pale enough, not caramelized or anything, but plenty sweet nevertheless, some obvious alcohol in the mix as well, not problematic, but certainly part of the experience here. it does open up as it sits, i get some floral honey, pear, and fresh citrus, still not totally popping, and not radically interesting, but its improving with temperature. feels heavy even aside from the alcohol, palate coating, sweeter, and with a lot of body and not quite enough carbonation to move it all along at the right pace. this may all sound a little overly critical, this is fine beer, but these guys have recently established a much higher standard, and i expected more from this anniversary offering. maybe its just not super fresh anymore, but it seems collapsed a little bit, hope to catch it newer next go around...

 

 

16oz can from Brewers Haven. Hazy straw color, small, creamy white head. Aroma is oranges and grapefruit peel, hoppiness towards the back and a preview of the ABV. Taste is citrusy, hoppy, strong, juicy, mildly sweet. Well balanced and holds it's ABV well.