Green Flash Linch Pin White IPA
This collaboration between Founders Brewing and Green Flash Brewing was originally conceived for this year’s Brewers Conference back in April in San Diego. Both brewery’s said it was fun to come together and work on an “emerging beer style.”
I’m not entirely sure what a “White IPA” is, but apparently, in the case of this particular brew, it’s what amounts to a Belgian IPA that has wheat in it. Now, I’m pretty sure that Belgian inspired IPAs (using a myriad of adjuncts) have been around for several years, so I’m not quite sure about the whole “emerging” part. Regardless, this 7% ABV brew is pretty darn tasty, delivering a fairly predominant hop profile along with a bit of a Saison-like character.
Appearance
Linch Pin pours a straw yellow in color with a massive, off-white head that fell slowly to decent lacing.
Aroma
It’s certainly got an interesting aroma. The wheat presence is subtle, but there along with grassy hops, barnyard hay, a light touch of funk and citrus fruits (lemon, grapefruit).
Taste
The flavors aren’t quite as layered as the nose, though all elements are present. It starts with wheat and a light saison-like funk before the grapefruit and minimal piny hop character arrive. The lingering, dry finish has a touch of bitterness that’s appropriate for the style. A light carbonation and slightly syrupy mouthfeel gives the medium bodied beer a thinker than expected feel. The alcohol leaves a subtle warmth in the chest.
Overall
Linch Pin is certainly an interesting brew. For the most part it’s a Belgian IPA with a little wheat thrown in for good measure. I think the yeast has more of an impact on the flavors than the use of wheat, giving the beer characteristics more akin to a saison than a white ale. Either way, the beer was tasty and I would certainly purchase another bottle before they all disappear.
Rating:4/5
