Surprise, surprise; another IPA review. I've never really been too blown away with Lagunitas, though I did have their Little Sumpin' Wild the other night and it was quite impressive. I've noticed this one several times at the store, but tonight was the first time I figured I'd give it a try. With 102 IBUs advertised at the top of the label, I'm surprised it has taken me this long.
It pours a very pretty, clear dark honey color. I found myself looking at this one quite a bit, and it is just a great looking beer. It is very well-carbonated and produced about a finger of head when poured, the vast majority of which stuck around throughout the duration of the beverage. Solid, continuous streak of lacing.
First thing I noticed on the aroma is actually a strong yeast character, similar to the aroma you get in the first couple days of fermentation. There is definitely some citrus hops in there, but nothing too overwhelming on the nose. It has a very floral, dry hopped character as well. Malt is there but extremely subtle. The whole aroma is extremely clean.
Definitely a noticeable alcohol character. For 102 IBUs, it just doesn't taste that bitter to me. I expect something a bit more noticeably offensive with those numbers. Malt is very evident, but it is a very base, pale sort of flavor. The hops have a bit of spiciness to them, and it definitely has a floral taste. Not getting much of that citrus from the aroma. A bit oily from the dry hopping and a medium body.
For 8% alcohol and high IBU count, this one is definitely a great deal for the price. I really enjoyed it, but I don't see myself running back to the store for more of it.
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