Hop Rod Rye
Almost as brown as the bottle it came in, with a beautiful half-inch to inch foamy off-white head that doesn't go anywhere after the pour. Lacing? You betcha. Tons of hop sediment float around at the bottom, and there's even some left in the bottom of the bottle. Gorgeous beer. The smell is pleasant and refreshing. You can tell tons of hops went into the development of this one. Citrus hops? That's what I get but I could be wrong. Whatever they are, they are potent. Whoa, first sip's reaction is "now that's an interesting and unique take on an IPA". Certainly very hoppy and robustly bitter on the back side of the taste, but also pleasantly balanced out by a certain heartiness that becomes this beer's character. The ultra-crisp mouthfeel and dry finish also help to balance out any and all flavors within. Virtually no alcohol taste at all at 8% ABV. While I can only imagine that the 18% rye malt is giving this beer its uniqueness, it doesn't take away from the overall balance of the beer. That is why this beer shines. It's unique and delicious and will be sure to please any hophead, but it's so delicately balanced that most people would be able to appreciate it. Just one of these has turned it into one of my favorite IPA's, or specialty ales, whatever it is, and it has peaked my interest for some other rye beers. Great beer, congrats and thanks to Bear Republic.