Editor’s Comment: Our intrepid Brewmeister and part time dog catcher JF got his hands on the elusive BrewDog Punk IPA and the rest is his-story.
Well, well, well; it’s been a long time coming. The mythical BrewDog Punk IPA has revealed itself. * If you know where to look they’re easy to spot. Yesterday I was perusing the local Intermarché for something different. I grabbed a few local Montpellier brews and there she was, sitting pretty at eye level. Into the shopping cart she went.
A servir avec de la biere!
Later that night the locals introduced me to Picon. ** An 18% orange liqueur that is mixed with beer, typically a light lager, at a 5:1 ratio. I must admit I was skeptical but went along for the alcohol ride. Not wanting to sacrifice my newfound BrewDog, a 1664 was sent to do the job. In went the Picon topped with the beer. It turned a deep amber, almost Belgian Tripel looking. To top it off it really made the 1664 worthy. In fact, it was worthy of a second glass.
Back to my BrewDog, and for the main event Simcoe, Krush, Loral and Citra hops bring this IPA to life. This may be my first time with Loral, along with the usual favourites, but she fit right in. The light golden pour settled with a light, fluffy one finger head. The bubbles provided great support with an almost champagne like effervescence.
It’s nicely hopped yielding a smooth fruity-citrusy blend rounded out with soft caramel and a tart finish. It’s light but just right. A well constructed brew. These punks know what they’re doing. The 5.4% isn’t readily revealed making this a dangerously good option for enjoying a few more than one. The tagline on the can “The beer that started it all” might be prophetic.
*Editor’s Comment: A Scottish brewer, BrewDog beers are popular around the world but traditionally have been hard to find in Canada, as in non-existent. We did have a BrewDog review from Vegas, a double dog dare stout off between the Scottish challenger, their Black Heart and reigning champ, the seemingly immutable Irish Guinness.
**Reviewer’s Comment: Picon has become scarce because of one ingredient: calamus which the FDA banned in 1968 due to its carcinogenic effects in some species. You also won’t find Amer Picon on liquor store shelves, as Picon no longer exports. No luck in Canada either.
0 Comments