Hop Strike Black India Pale Ale

Today I'm drinking Hop Strike Black India Pale Ale brewed by Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub in Idaho Springs, Colorado. Not only is this a Black IPA, but it's also brewed with Rye Malts. The label describes their offerings as "Colorado Mountain Town Craft Beer" and goes on to tell a story about tommyknockers sneaking into gold towns in the 1800's. The front even depicts one of these rarely seen elves. Tommyknocker's labels have been hugely upgraded since the cartoonish ones I remember from last time I had one. Best Before November 11, 2011.

Hoppy, roasted, spicy rye aroma, a lot going on and very interesting. Roasted and chocolatey flavors beginning. Not lost is the hoppy backdrop that persists for the entire beer, and while fairly intense, it is a supporting actor and not the star. Rye flavors are also easily identified, nice and spicy. Hoppy bitterness and peppery spice work very well together and in harmony with the balancing maltiness. The 78 IBUs definitely win out in the end though. Those main flavors are accented by some minty, herbal and smokey little hints. The 6.5% alcohol did nothing more than add a little dryness to the finish. Good lingering aftertaste. I liked this beer for its flavor, but even moreso for its originality. Check it out!

TOMMYKNOCKER BREWERY IDAHO SPRINGS COLORADO TRUCKER HAT




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