Brew Detective: EOD IIPA | Ordnance Brewing

Ordnance Brewing was established in 2014 by a multi-generational family of hop growers. The beer I first got my hands on was, EOD, their double IPA. Their Kölsch is also pretty tasty. Anyhow, back to the IIPA and its floral nose. Once the bouquet was poured you can't help but notice the clarity and color, an amber tinged with orange. Not all double IPA's look the same, but this was a much darker hue than I expected. Brewed with Mt. Hood and Columbus hops this double does not disappoint in drink-ability. The bitterness was subtle and its foamy top endures. If you happen to see this brew in your beer aisle, grab a six pack. Cheers.

EOD IIPA | 7.8% | 80 IBU

Enjoy responsibly,

eightychoices.

PUBlication: Double Liberty

Double Liberty IPA | Argonaut Collection

Hot temperatures are always tough to bear, grabbing a cold beer can help to ease the heat. If you're looking for a new option, try Anchor Brewing. America's first craft beer company is still pulling off new tricks. They recently began brewing their Argonaut Collection. One of these limited releases is the Double Liberty IPA (sold as a four pack). The label is beautiful thanks to the hand-drawn art of Jim Stitt. Spring 2015 marked the first time this double IPA was brewed and it might already be out of circulation. It's worth your effort if found. 

Leaving the bottle this double pours apricot in color. A robust foam rises to the top. Below the froth lies a fresh subtlety. You can smell how balanced it is. The body appears heavier, it's a bit maltier than a typical DIPA. The malt base is 2-Row Pale, which melds nicely with the Cascade hops. There isn't one overly-menacing trait. It may be a bit sweet for some hop heads but don't let it fool you, it's still bitter. This palatable beast from Anchor is a rare breed, drink responsibly. 8.2% | 90 IBUs

eightychoices.

PUBlication: Mosaic IPA

St. Archer Brewery | Mosaic IPA

St. Archer has released a limited batch of their Mosaic IPA, a testament to their capabilities and the mosaic hop varietal. This double IPA is filled with lush impressions throughout the experience—there's no denying the hop-forward intensity. It possesses an aroma that  demands snouting out the pint glass. This is one of the most palatable double IPA's of the summer. Initially it comes across as mean, but settles into a friendly beast.

How they brewed this with such clean and refreshing characteristics without sacrificing bitterness is impressive. Each taste made me want to drink more. The 'bite' is all on the tongue. The precision of the hop medley, which includes Amarillo, Simcoe and Chinook, is lavishly layered. It is the Mosaic varietal that the spotlight shines brightest upon. Its sticky fruit and citrus notes are the most rousing. The copper clarity invites you in, as the light pillow of carbonated foam further encourages. Having a flavor profile that is both punchy and refined makes it even more alluring. How is it capable of being so deliberate, as well as, so delicate? I guess you call it double trouble. If you see this beer, buy it. There are no mistakes in the Mosaic IPA from St. Archer. 9%

eightychoices.