Deschutes Brewery Pinedrops IPA
What the brewers say
“This IPA delivers a crisp and light malt body with ample citrus and pine notes from Chinook and Equinox hops. Inspired by the aromas and silence we experience in the pine forests near our brewhouse.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Floral aroma—almost lavender—with a light lemony background. Floral fades as it warms, and it morphs into more of a citrusy grapefruit. Some pear cocktail with lemon rind and even tangerine notes up front. A touch catty and floral but gives way to resinous piney notes.”
Flavor: “Very strong lemony flavor— bright and citrus-focused with light floral flavors in the finish. Not at all what I was expecting based on the aroma. The finish has a lingering bitterness that borders on astringent. Some catty, black currant notes and just a hint of malt sweetness.”
Overall: “Despite the weird and overpowering aroma, I was pleasantly surprised to find a powerful, lemon-focused hops flavor with enough bitterness to keep the malt profile in check. Shows flashes of greatness, but the high bitterness detracts from the overall. Dial back the IBUs to make it a bit more drinkable and I’ll buy a lot.”
