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

87

Stone Brewing Company Go To IPA

Aroma: “Tangerines, a little grass, hints of evergreen needles, citrus, light malt character. Like a Christmas wreath or walking through a thick evergreen forest. A touch of spiciness. Mild fruity esters.”

Flavor: “Whoa, that’s some grass! Reminds me of fresh-cut grass, but more clippings than lawn. Tons of pine in there accentuate the grassy notes. A pleasant malt sweetness offers support, and an assertive bitterness completes the off-dry finish. This tastes like a hops tea with a moderately strong bitter finish. Very little malt to soften the blow.”

Overall: “If you like piney, grassy hops flavor and aroma, this is the session IPA for you. The assertive evergreen character is balanced by a surprising malt backbone and sufficient bitterness make it a solid session IPA—what I would expect from a competent brewer. A little more malt would soften some of the rough edges.”

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