Review – Great Divide Hercules Double IPA

From Great Divide Brewing Co. – Hoppier, maltier and with more alcohol than a standard IPA, Hercules Double IPA definitely is not for the faint of heart. Hercules Double IPA is, however, an elixir fit for the gods. A brash but creamy wonder, Hercules pours a deep orange-coppery color, forming substantial lace in the glass. Hercules Double IPA delivers a huge amount of piney, floral, and citrusy hop aroma and flavor from start to finish. A hefty backbone of nutty, toffee-like malt character balances Hercules’ aggressive, punchy hop profile.

Great Divide Brewing Co. – Hercules Double IPA Poured into a pint glass. 9.1% ABV. Purchased at Dawsons Liquors in Severna Park, MD.
Appearance: Copper with a 1″, clingy head that lasted for several minutes.

Aroma: Caraway seeds with hints of tangerine.

Taste: A very quick splash of creamy sweetness before your taste buds are assaulted by hops. The bitter finish lasts for a very long time, exactly as one would expect from this kind of beer.

Mouthfeel: The creaminess at the sip quickly makes way to a clean, rather uncarbonated feel; very pleasant.

Drinkability: The high ABV would have me saying “when” long before my palate was ready to say “uncle.” This is a fantastic beer that would stand up well to the heartiest of steaks and cigars.