Hoppin’ Frog Hop Master’s Abbey
Thinking about the many products from Hoppin’ Frog Brewery and images of big stouts fill my mind almost instantly — the company’s B.O.R.I.S. line of beers is just outstanding. Now, that’s not to say they don’t know how to do hoppy. They do, and Hop Master’s Abbey is a solid example of what the brewery can do with a handful of American hops and a dash of Belgian yeast.
This 8.5% ABV Belgian IPA is a pretty solid example of the style and with a whopping 81 IBU you’d expect it to pack a punch, but it doesn’t quite deliver on that hoppy promise. In fact, everything about Hop Master’s Abbey is a bit on the subtle side. That’s not to say it’s bad — it’s actually nicely balanced. I personally would just like a little more pop to a beer that loudly proclaims itself a “Belgian-style Double IPA.”
Appearance
A full and dense off-white crown of foam rests atop the slightly hazy, golden brew.
Aroma
The nose on Hop Master’s Abbey is rather subdued. I get a blend of faded hop character, light pine, bready malt and a soft yeast presence. I couldn’t find a bottling date so I couldn’t say that this particular bottle was older than anticipated, but it sort of has that character.
Taste
If this beer did sit too long on the shelf, the flavors haven’t been all that affected. The hop character is pretty mellow for an Imperial IPA (Belgian-inspired or otherwise), but there is a measure of light pine and distant citrus notes. The Belgian influence shows up late in the finish with a light yeasty, spicy and peppery character that goes well with the hop profile. I expected a bit more of a hop bite at 81 IBU. The brew is medium bodied with a moderate sweetness and lingering warmth.
Overall
I’m not entirely sure what to make of Hop Master’s Abbey. Is is just a rather subdued Imperial IPA? Did it sit on shelves too long before I walked by? Regardless, it was still a pretty tasty brew, but just lacked the punch I’ve become accustomed to with other products from Hoppin’ Frog. I do believe I’ll give the beer another shot if I happen across it again, but until then I’ve got a couple of Barrel Aged B.O.R.I.S. to keep me happy.
Rating: 3.75/5
