AleSmith IPA
Finally, a fresh bottle of Alesmith IPA. I've been wanting to sit down with a bomber of this for years. The beer is hazy and light orange in color, with a half inch of head that leaves some sticky lacing on the pint glass. The aroma brings grapefruit, pine, sweet candied fruit, and malt. The scent is a notch above the flavor, gaining in intensity as the beer gradually warms. The flavor is hop forward, but definitely brings a healthy dose of malt along for the ride. I believe this is what many brewers try to achieve when brewing "balanced" IPAs. Sweetness is present throughout, with some sticky pine resin clinging to the palate. Of course, personal preference plays a role in my rating, but I would like to see the malt bill toned down a bit, giving way to the grapefruit and other citrus flavors. This brew is a little too sweet for my liking, though I certainly don't find it cloying. The feel is sticky and sweet, with a noticeable pine presence throughout. Alcohol presence is there, though subtle and unobtrusive. The body is medium, with a light bitterness in the finish. Unfortunately, the hop bitterness is somewhat cancelled out by the malty sweetness. Overall, a good brew and worth a try. Not in the same league as the Alpine Nelson I had last night. Still, tasty and enjoyable.