Mikkeller Nelson Sauvin Single Hop IPA
The gypsy brewers of Mikkeller have been releasing a series of IPAs focused solely on the use of a single hop variety in each individual beer. There are a number of these beers already available from the company featuring the Centennial, Simcoe, Amarillo and Tomahawk to name but a few. So far, this Nelson Sauvin focused brew is the first one I’ve even seen in my area.
Since this is the first of the series that I’ve had, I can’t rightly compare it to the rest, but I can say that as far as American IPAs go, it’s a tasty treat. The beer has a nice balance between the bitter, earthy hops and an appropriate level of malt sweetness. At 6.9% ABV it’s not really that sessionable, but is still quite drinkable.
Appearance
Orangish amber in color, the beer has a slight haziness. The rocky white head faded to quality lacing.
Aroma
The nose isn’t overwhelmingly powerful, but it does carry a wonderful hop presence that is piny, resinous and earthy with a touch of orange and wet grass. The malts also make their presence known with a slight toast and subtle sweetness.
Taste
I was expecting something with a bit more of a hop punch with a recipe that focuses so squarely on a particular hop varietal. That said, I was pleasantly surprised at how well balanced this brew is. The hops are earthy, not overly bitter and carry a nice level of fruitiness and resiny pine. The toasted malts are in the mix as well adding a bit of sweetness that fades to a lower level of bitterness in the wonderfully lingering finish.
Overall
I can’t wait to check out the remaining beers in this series (if I can find them, that is). This Nelson Sauvin-focused brew is a well balanced American IPA that has a ton of flavor and is easily drinkable. I only hope I can still find some when the weather warms.
Rating: 4/5