Review – Stone Cali-Belgique IPA
Stone: When reading the name “Stone Cali-Belgique IPA”, “Cali” hints that it is a California-style IPA, and this brew has an undeniable Belgian influence, indicated by the word “Belgique” (which is how Belgium’s French-speaking population says the word “Belgian”; the Dutch-speaking Belgians say “België”).
Appearance: Dark yellow with tons of carbonation rising to the top. Starts with a bubbly white head that subsides to 1/4 inch.
Aroma: Smells like a more hopped up version of Stone 08.08.08 Vertical Epic. Some cloves, some bitter hops, and hints of pineapple.
Taste: My initial sip hit the back of my tongue with hop bitterness. As I dig deeper, I find flavors of pineapple and papaya. Not that I eat pencils and erasers, but I get notes of pencil and eraser remnants.
Mouthfeel: Very fizzy, and the bitterness sticks to my mouth.
Overall: While I am glad I tried this, I will pass the next time. I like Stone IPA, and I like Stone 08.08.08 Vertical Epic Ale, but I’m not a fan of this marriage. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below.
