Flying Dog Lemondrop Imperial IPA
The latest release in Flying Dog’s Single Hop Series showcases the Lemondrop hop variety — one that I don’t think I’ve encountered on its own like this. With the singular focus, aromas and flavors that may not have been apparent in other releases certainly stand out when given as much prominence as a beer like this 8% ABV (75 IBU) imperial IPA.
As part of one of my favorite ongoing series, Lemondrop Imperial IPA has a lot to live up to — some of the best beers that Flying Dog has crafted have appeared in this series. This single-hopped brew isn’t quite as dynamic as other releases in this series, but it does provide one of the more unique flavor profiles. While lemony traits persist in the nose and on the tongue, it’s the (unexpected) green tea flavors that really make this beer a stand out amongst its peers. A solid amount of hop bitterness peaks nicely before fading with the tea and lemony notes into the long lasting and lightly drying finish.
While green tea isn’t one of my most liked flavors, I can appreciate the difference it makes in this imperial IPA. And much like the rest of the Single Hop Series, Lemondrop Imperial IPA does a really nice job of showcasing the variety of influences a hop variety can impart on the same base beer. This wasn’t my favorite from this limited run of beers, but then again, I’m not sure anything is going to match that Simcoe release.
This is a review of a promotional sample.