The gypsy brewers of Mikkeller have been releasing a series of IPAs focused solely on the use of a single hop variety in each individual beer. There are a number of these beers already available from the company featuring the Centennial, Simcoe, Amarillo and Tomahawk to name but a few. So far, this Nelson Sauvin focused brew is the first one I’ve even seen in my area.
Nelson Sauvin Single Hop IPA
Since this is the first of the series that I’ve had, I can’t rightly compare it to the rest, but I can say that as far as American IPAs go, it’s a tasty treat. The beer has a nice balance between the bitter, earthy hops and an appropriate level of malt sweetness. At 6.9% ABV it’s not really that sessionable, but is still quite drinkable.
Appearance
Orangish amber in color, the beer has a slight haziness. The rocky white head faded to quality lacing.
Aroma
The nose isn’t overwhelmingly powerful, but it does carry a wonderful hop presence that is piny, resinous and earthy with a touch of orange and wet grass. The malts also make their presence known with a slight toast and subtle sweetness.
Taste
I was expecting something with a bit more of a hop punch with a recipe that focuses so squarely on a particular hop varietal. That said, I was pleasantly surprised at how well balanced this brew is. The hops are earthy, not overly bitter and carry a nice level of fruitiness and resiny pine. The toasted malts are in the mix as well adding a bit of sweetness that fades to a lower level of bitterness in the wonderfully lingering finish.
Overall
I can’t wait to check out the remaining beers in this series (if I can find them, that is). This Nelson Sauvin-focused brew is a well balanced American IPA that has a ton of flavor and is easily drinkable. I only hope I can still find some when the weather warms.
Rating: 4/5
