Ecliptic / Wicked Weed / Stone Points Unknown IPA
It’s no secret that I like a good collaboration brew. To see two or more like-minded breweries get together and create something intriguing and unique can be a magical thing. Sometimes, however, it doesn’t always go that way. This three-way effort from Ecliptic Brewing, Wicked Weed and Stone Brewing companies, thankfully, does not fall in that latter category. Points Unknown IPA is a fine brew with plenty of complexity and flavor.
This 9.5% ABV (72 IBU) imperial IPA is actually a blend of two beers. One quarter of this beer is a Belgian-style tripel that was aged in oak barrels that originally held red wine and later tequila. The other 75% of this beer is a West coast style double IPA. The result is a vibrant, hoppy beer with enough of that barrel-aged tripel to keep you guessing and on your toes for what may strike the palate with the next sip.
Appearance
The beer sits in the glass a brilliant amber with a resilient cap of tawny foam.
Aroma
The aroma on this beer is great as elements of peach, soft pine, woody notes, distant spices and tropical fruits combine wonderfully. I’m not sure if I pick up any of the tequila, but there’s a touch of vinous notes in the background.
Taste
While the pine and tropical fruits of the West coast influence of this blend dominate, the tripel starts to show through more — especially as the beer warms in the glass. Yeast, hints of clove, woody notes, a hint of tequila, distant grain and a solid amount of hop bitterness wash over the tongue smoothly. Light vinous notes come and go with each sip as honey and a moderate sweetness also join the party. The beer has a refreshing mouthfeel with good body, finishing lightly dry and softly boozy.
Overall
Points Unknown IPA is certainly a complex beer, but that’s to be expected with the elements that went into this collaborative blend. I almost want more of the tripel and its barrel influence to come through a bit more in the mix. I love the flavor and the challenging depth the beer brings to the table. I will most certainly be on the look out for a bomber or two of this one on my next beer run.
Rating: 4.25/5
This is a review of a promotional sample.
