From Alesmith: Deep golden to light amber color, and a nice off-white head, with good retention when properly served. Starts off with pleasantly strong hop flavors, balanced by a firm malt backdrop, then fades to a dry finish with a lingering hoppiness.

Alesmith Brewing Company – Alesmith IPA – 22 oz bomber poured into a pint glass.  7.75% abv. Purchased at Whole Foods Market Pasadena, CA (Hastings).

Appearance: Dark, goldish yellow. Moderate amount of rising bubbles. A large off white, fluffy head sits atop.

Aroma: Orange juice, grapefruit juice, citrus rind, pineapple.

Taste: A mouthful of bitterness and citrus flavors mentioned in the aroma. After the bitterness gets acquainted with my palate, I then taste a good amount of crystal malts, that lends a bit of spicy sweetness to the large amount of hoppage.

Mouthfeel: A tad astringent, a little bit tongue curling. Then I notice the trademark smooth softness of Alesmith in the finish.

Overall: Much better than when I first had it. I was told the trick is to get it fresh. I can see how that can be true, as the killer bouquet of citrus aromas takes the beer to a whole ‘nother level. In my little weird world, I would like to make this Summer Yulesmith’s little brother.

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