Sierra Nevada India Pale Ale
Rich copper color and great clarity. Moderate sized head with mediocre retention. Head is white and finely bubbled while it lasts. Caught a whiff of alcohol and some subdued hops. A very clean aroma for a bigger ale. Hop flavor and bitterness dominate from the beginning. A taste of alcohol as well. A lingering hop and/or alcohol bitterness late. Generally a big, clean, hoppy flavor. Might expect a bit more yeast character from an English IPA, but the S.N. interpretation is nice as well. Medium body and carbonation. Some alcohol warming, but under control. A smooth mouthfeel despite the very evident high IBU. Overall a substantial IPA, with strong hop flavor and bitterness, and a sufficient malt backbone to support. Drinkable.