In a blind tasting by BJCP trained experts, this beer rated

90

The Alchemist Focal Banger

Aroma: “Juicy and fruity, with notes of overripe pineapple, melon, grapefruit, and orange. Light white bread yeast notes. Some slight spice character, with a funky hops aroma up front.”

Flavor: “Assertive hops bitterness that lingers and sticks to the teeth. The flavor hits with an interesting complexity, adding grapefruit sweetness and pineapple that extends into the finish as it warms. Dank earthiness on the finish.”

Overall: “A full-bodied IPA with lots of hops flavor and aroma. Good body and nice complexity, but a little too bitter for a New England IPA without the juice character to support it. This is an interesting beer that invites more investigation.”

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