In a blind tasting by BJCP trained experts, this beer rated
96
Stone Brewing Company IPA
Aroma: “Citrus and piney hop notes dominate with little-to-no malt aroma. Dank, citrus rind, tea, orange marmalade-like with light peppery spice and slight cattiness. As it warms, some graham cracker-like maltiness. Malt is subtle but shows up in the background as toasty.”
Flavor: “Complex hop flavor without any singular flavors dominating—citrus rind, some floral, and citrus juice character, subtle pine. Balanced well with light sweet malt character. Citrus up front with juicy grapefruit and some pine, earthy hop flavors add complexity. Bitterness prominent and lingers only long enough to beg for more.”
Overall: “Very enjoyable with good balance of piney notes and citrus/grapefruit. The hops are definitely in the front of the beer. Very nice IPA that has great, complex hop profile that is rounded perfectly with a nice, lingering bitterness. Very tasty.”