Cat Boss Approved
Attic Brewing Co.

 

 

With the entire contents of a pint can emptied into a clear glass liter mug, fears that this is just another barley malt shortened modern American IPA arise. A big foamy stark white mess on top of a lightly and brightly golden-amber, mostly as translucent as adjunct lager, projects that concern. Sure, it looks OK for a lager, but it's unconvincing for an IPA. There is a good crisp piney aspect to its aroma. The foam reduces evenly and becomes a head. Then, there's graduated glass lacing. It's piney, but there's no bite at the finish. There are no taste transitions, as there's almost no contribution from the body. At least whatever is there manages a decent backbone that provides a smooth delivery, even without adding a flavor layer. Overall, this is pleasant, but not exciting, nor impressive. A little more malt in the body would certainly add a taste layer that's missing. There's no problem having one, but it's understandable if you move on after that.

Poured into a narrow imperial pint glass: color is gold, clear, light effervescence, head is brighter white and presents one finger thick, head dissipates to solid top and some lacing on the glass sides.

Smell is clean barley malt with notes of toast and honey, earthy/piney/light citric hops.

Taste is barley malt notes and west coast ipa hop profile; notes of toast, biscuit, very light caramel, pine, citrus, earthy hops.

Mouthfeel is moderate carbonation, moderate sweetness, bitterness is moderate; lingering presence is balanced.

Overall a very good American IPA in the traditional sense - hop forward, malt balance, lingering bitterness.