I know I’ve had Alimony Ale plenty times before and could have sworn that I’d published a review of it at some point in the past, but apparently my mind isn’t what it used to be. So with that said, here’s a review of a beer whose label, for some reason, cracks me up each and every time I see it on the shelves.
Buffalo Bill’s Brewery (out of California) has been brewing this 6.8% ABV IPA since the late 80′s — at time at which its 80 IBUs was unheard of. In the craft beer world today, that level of bitterness isn’t all that uncommon, especially for you hop-heads out there The beer uses Cascade and a few other unknown varieties for bittering which creates a brew that packs plenty of hop bite.
Appearance
Alimony Ale pours amber in color with a a large, full head that fell slowly.
Aroma
Wafts of herbal, spicy hops dominate the aroma while citrus fruits and a light caramel join in the fun.
Taste
I can see why they named this beer Alimony Ale — it’s got a pretty solid peppery, bitter hop presence. Though it’s hoppy, it’s not over the top as some hop bombs present themselves. There’s a healthy bit of pine and grapefruit in the mix that lasts a good long while as the initial bitterness fades slowly. Despite it’s bite, the beer is surprisingly drinkable.
Overall
This beer certainly packs a wallop in terms of its IBU numbers, but when all is said and done the beer is well balanced between the fruity, piny hops and a decent level of toasted malt. This is definitely a beer that I will be enjoying for as long as the brewery continues to make it.
Rating:3.5/5
