Serpent's Touch
Autodidact Beer

 

Pint pour on draught at the brewery. It pours a hazy, golden-orange color with a half finger cap of creamy, bright white foam and lots of thick, clinging lacing. The smell is great! Lemon, lime, tangerine, peach, and soft floral hops. Its taste opens dryer than I expected. It's earthy and herbal and the Strata hop influence is huge. The fruit emerges as it warms and breathes in the glass. The tart citrus is balanced by soft notes of peach, melon, and a hint of red berry. The Pacific Sunrise hop presence is strong. The Columbus and Simcoe add mild, clean bitterness throughout. This ale is very drinkable for 8.3% ABV. Overall, Serpent's Touch grew on me as I sipped it. It's not as sweet as a typical D96 DIPA but it's well-balanced and flavorful. And kudos to Autodicat for brewing with D96 so soon after the brewery opened. It's quickly made it to the big time.