While I don’t go out of my way for IPAs, especially Double IPAs, I do enjoy a well crafted hoppy beer every now and then. Victory Brewing‘s DirtWolf Double IPA came highly recommended by a friend whose palate I trust. Needless to say, his recommendation was right on. Also, when this beer lands in stores, it sells out pretty quickly so grab it if you see it.
Appearance: Clear gold, off-white head, good retention.
Aroma: Grapefruit, pine, light hop dankness, mango, grass, hay.
Taste: Hoppy notes of citrus, pine, tropical fruit. Touch of honey malt. Finishes with a bit of malt/hop sweetness mixed with big hop spiciness.
Overall Impression: This is nicely balanced Double IPA. That’s not to say the hops aren’t present. They are. But the malt character provides a nice counter point that really allows the hops to shine. It’s subtly aggressive, much like the hop plant the beer is named after. If you’re a fan of Citra, Mosaic, Simcoe, and Chinook hops, this is the beer for you.
Availability: Year round in states that carry Victory Brewing. Their website (linked above) features a beer finder to help you locate their products.
8.7% ABV