Pours a gorgeous coppery-orange, brilliant and clear, with an eggshell coloured head that falls to a collar and large foamy patch. Massive American hop aroma, with orange peel and pine. Full bodied with a velvety, creamy texture. Enormous hops on the palate - loads of citrus peel and resinous pine with substantial bitterness. There's malt underneath - with some biscuity and caramel character, but it's mainly supporting the hop overload. Big, lingering resiny finish with some floral & citric hop notes. Alcohol is evident but not overwhelming. As it warms, a honeyish note shows up. Beautifully integrated, massive brew. Some light lace remains on the glass. Goes nicely with Tandoori chicken, saag paneer and malai kofta.
Picked up a bomber from my local BevMo and poured into a large snifter to review. Bottled in Feb. 2009, Batch 9.
Pours fair... more