If Sierra Nevada know how to do anything in the beer universe, it’s make one hell of a tasty, hoppy brew. Their flagship Pale Ale is the model of consistency and success as evident by recent sales numbers. Each variety of IPA — whether from their Estate line to relatively new year-round offerings like Torpedo — that the brewery produces is unique and flavorful.
Their latest, limited release is Hoptimum — a 100 IBU, 10.4% ABV whole-cone hop blast. Originating from a challenge to one of the brewery’s beer camps, this beer is hopped, dry hopped and then torpedoed with a variety of hops including Simcoe, German Magnum, Citra, Chinook and the company’s own proprietary variety.
Described as “new school” in terms of process and overall flavor, Hoptimum was definitely a treat to enjoy. I just hope I can find another bottle or two before they’re all gone.
Appearance
Man, I wish I had taken a photo of this beer. It sure does look good sitting in a pint glass. Orangish amber in color Hoptimum sat with rocky, off-white head.
Aroma
The nose on this brew may not be as pungent as some, but it’s refined character contains elements of pine resin, grapefruit, lightly toasted malt, spicy hops and a light sweetness. There’s not much of an alcohol presence despite its elevated level.
Taste
Right away you’re greeted with oily hops and a strong bitter bite before the intensity fades smoothly to a lingering, more subtle bitterness that lasts a good long while. The hops have that tell-tale grapefruit profile but also hints of tangerine and other tropical citrus fruits that I can’t pinpoint. The light malts bring a nicely balancing sweetness to help temper the aggressive hopping that this beer went through when being made. The alcohol does make itself known, but only in the form of a light warming effect in the finish — be careful though, it will sneak up on you as this brew is drinkable as all get out.
Overall
As usual, Sierra Nevada lay down the law when it comes to a hoppy brew. Hoptimum is packed with juicy, fruity hops yet has enough balance from the malt component to keep the entire beer drinkable and refreshing. If you can still find some, I highly suggest picking up a couple of bottles (and then, of course, sending one my way).
Rating: 4.5/5
February 24th, 2011
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[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by The Barley Blog, james lenihan. james lenihan said: RT @barleyblog: New beer review: @SierraNevada Hoptimum http://t.co/Bfu0qG8 Another stellar IPA! [...]