I had the pleasure of lunching at Bench Brewery a few weeks ago and picked up this Hopster Double IPA there. Bench has a big facility, a very nice dining area, and rows upon rows of hops. This particular brew uses their own Centennial hops as well as Idaho7, Citra and Eldorado. A veritable hopfest. I had previously reviewed Bench’s Hopster IPA and thoroughly enjoyed it, so I had mixed feelings about this brew. On the one hand I thought they did such a good job on their single that I was looking forward to their double, on the other hand I was afraid they might screw up a good thing and 8% ABV is always a challenging brew to pull off. Oh me of little faith.
So when the 7% Solution doesn’t work, what do you do? How about the 8% solution as in the Double Hopster. It seemed to make sense as I was commiserating the Cowboy’s opening day loss to Tampa Bay and senior citizen Brady. I guess it’s another “rebuilding “ year for the Cowboys.
A golden hazy pour, minimal head and a hoppy aroma but not over the top hops. Nice flavour, a touch of a boozy hit on the aftertaste but a mellowing is underway, just not sure if it’s me or the beer. I am thirsty so we are in full swig mode. Great body and mouthfeel, a smooth IPA without a crisp or hoppy finish. Instead there is fruit and booze competing a bit on the finish. which usually isn’t that endearing but seems to work well here. A slight fruit booze aftertaste but not worth telling the teacher about it.
This is a good strong tasty IPA that’s kickin’ ass and takin’ names. A great beer for the adventurous IPA drinker, this is what a double IPA should be. I wish I had another handy to double up.
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