Ninkasi Brewing Company Maiden the Shade
What the brewers say
“This summer-style IPA captures a balanced hops complexity. An adventurous hops bouquet of eight select varieties is complemented by the use of flaked barley to create a beer that is as robust as it is easy to sip.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Orange, lemon, pineapple, cherry, plum—a clean hops profile with some esters one doesn’t expect in an IPA. Some pine resin in the background adds a nice complexity. Some malt breadiness.”
Flavor: “Fruit-forward with the usual suspects (mango, lemon, pine) and a few odd players: the stone-fruit esters are bright, but odd. Balance is good with the esters providing a touch of sweetness mid-palate that fades beneath the dry finish and lingering bitterness. Overall a little heavy, especially given the lighter color and focus on fruitier hops qualities.”
Overall: “Interesting take on the style. Straightforward IPA without a lot going on. The individual elements are good, and the hops flavors especially are well done, but it’s a bit too sweet to balance and tie everything together.”
