Iron Hill Crusher Session IPA
I’ve talked at length in various reviews about session IPAs. I’m not going to do that here, but will summarize in saying I don’t believe the hop bitterness (and eventual palate fatigue) allow IPAs to be truly sessionable. That said, Iron Hill’s Crusher (5% ABV, 48 IBU) certainly makes it easy to empty a can or two.
So, while Crusher IPA is quite crushable/chuggable — whatever other adjective you’d like to throw in this part of the review — the hop bitterness is of a moderate level which refreshes nicely on one end, but would also wear out the palate afterwards. The flavor is dominated by grapefruit, pineapple and a lightly resinous pine combination as grassy hop traits and hints of herbal note linger at the edges. The IPA’s body and lively mouthfeel contribute to its satisfying nature. The IPA leads with a fruity aroma and flavor profile, but doesn’t go so far to live in the realm of fruit-forward examples of the style thanks to that pine resin and leafy hop notes.
Much like the bear floating along within the can’s label artwork, I could certainly see myself floating down a river, butt firmly planted in an inner tube and a styrofoam cooler of Crusher IPA in tow. It’s definitely got that Summer-time, thirst quenching attitude about it — a trait that I seek out frequently in the Virginia heat. This IPA would serve nicely during ro after any hot weather, outside activity.
This is a review of a promotional sample.