08 March 2009

Beer Review, Hopslam Ale

Bell's Hopslam Ale
Comstock, MI
10.00% ABV

Appearance: Transparent reddish-orange body, thick white head that leaves some lacing. Impressive quantity of head considering the ABV. Some carbonation in the glass. 5.0/5

Smell: Crisp hops up front, with a malty syrupy sweetness underneath. Strong honey backbone, lots of interesting sugar combinations. Hints of grapefruit and oranges. 4.5/5

Taste: Very sweet with honey on the first sit, with a heavy dose of hops on the back-end. Very dry on the finish. Very sugary, strongly flavored with grapefruit. High astringency due to alcohol. 4.0/5

Mouthfeel: Thick but smooth, goes down clean. Moderate carbonation. 4.0/5

Drinkability: Not my all-time favorite DIPA, but I'm really curious to see how these age over time. I may stick them in a closet and try one again in six months or so. 4.0/5

Overall: 4.3/5

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