Ecliptic Brewing Orange Giant
What the brewers say
“Three malts create a hearty malt profile with robust character. Copious amounts of Chinook and Nugget hops combine for a nice resiny hops flavor. Perfect for aging in your cellar.”
What our panel thought
“Hops baby! The nose is quite inviting, with deep caramel wrapped around a woody hops bine. Great malt character in the aroma leads you into the first sip, where the sharp hops bitterness asserts itself. Flavor is bitter, bitter, bitter, and astringent. You expect an American barleywine to be bitter, but this is a bit out of balance. With just a little lower IBU count, that malt richness could shine so much brighter.”
What our editors thought
“Pacific Northwest hops on the nose offer citrus and pine in equal measure. It feels oddly comforting amidst the heavily English-leaning direction as of late. The sip is firmly bitter yet topped with an endearing orange citrus note that’s highlighted by the caramel malt—the sweetness supports the fruit notes and makes for an unapologetic American take on barleywine.”
