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

99

Ballast Point Brewing & Spirits Sculpin IPA

Aroma: “Super piney and resinous with a very light caramel sweetness. A basic tension between candy-like citrus and floral notes set against green, dank, and white-wine aromas.”

Flavor: “Very bright with aggressive piney hops flavors, moderate malt, a slight garlic flavor, and grapefruit and pine notes. Dialed-in bitterness hits the mark. Lots of hoppy goodness with lemon candy, green, and floral notes. Delicious. Juicy hops notes with hints of tangerine, lemon candy, green and floral notes, plus balancing pine and dankness.”

Overall: “Lovely resinous character well-balanced by the malt sweetness. Drinks like the stronger side of IPA, bordering on double IPA. A well-crafted blend of malt, hops, and alcohol—exactly what an IPA should be. Complex hops character with an exciting blend of classic and contemporary hops character. A full-bodied, full-flavored IPA with tons of nuance with each sip. This is extremely well executed—a great beer.”

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