Evolution Lot #3 IPA
I understand that the hop bitterness of IPAs gone by is mostly a thing of the past. Modern craft beer drinkers have embraced the fruitier, less biting example of the style and I’ve come (begrudgingly) to terms with that fact. Every once in a while, however, I cross paths with an IPA that not only echoes days gone by with healthy hop profiles and my spirit lifts. Evolution’s Lot #3 IPA is one of those beers.
This 6.8% ABV (60 IBU) IPA reminds me of the old school example of the style where a solid malt back bone not only present bready notes, grain and caramel, but also provided ample support for a pungent hop profile that included pine, citrus notes, grapefruit and, yes, actual bitterness. All of those elements are in play with each sip of this medium-bodied brew. There’s also a lovely balance amongst all of the elements as a moderate malt sweetness tempers those 60 IBUs cleanly.
You don’t find too many, straightforward IPAs like Lot #3 any more — I’m cool with that. I’m pleased, though, to find company’s like Evolution producing a well-balanced experience that still allows those alpha acids to creep up with a good bit of intensity that lets the tongue know there is a healthy dose of hops in that IPA you’re drinking. This is one of those beers that I could sit down on the back deck and enjoy a couple after a long day’s work or play. Its balance and refreshing nature make a beer suited nicely for my own tastes.
This is a review of a promotional sample.