Always giddy to try a new black IPA. It's not too common to find an imperial-style black IPA, and this one definitely deserves that title at 9.2% ABV. Its pours a very dark black but there is some brownish amber shining through on the edges. Pouring produced very little head, though it appears to be decently carbonated. Hops hit very heavy on the aroma with some sharp pine and pungent citrus. Also getting a very coffee-like roastiness. The hops blend well and the malt character, while subtle, really helps to accentuate everything else.
First impression upon tasting is that it is very spicy and piney. Definitely getting a lot of wood character from the hops as well. Hidden in this is some very sharp, burnt malt character and some rich chocolate. Alcohol is evident, but it seems to mix well with the intense hop flavors. You would never guess it was 9.2% ABV based on taste alone. Bitterness is pretty strong and definitely seems to linger longer than anything else. Alcohol warming. Body is a little on the lighter side but works well with a strong carbonation.
I've decided that all Cascadian dark ales are black IPAs, but not all black IPAs are Cascadian dark ales. Hope that makes sense. Anyway, this is definitely what I would consider a CDA; just has that wonderful pine/wood Pacific Northwest hop character with a splash of roast that defines the style. Would recommend, would drink again.
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