The red hue almost looks like it was added after the brewing process happened. Maybe I'm being cynical, but that's the impression I get. The aroma is surprisingly hoppy. I say it's surprising, as I expected it to be more like a red or amber ale, and it is clearly an IPA from the aroma. I wonder what the taste will bring.First sip is a sweet and hoppy beer. I had definitely not expected sweet malt to be foremost in the beer, and it takes a back seat to the hops, but the malt is making me aware of its location and the reason that it is here - to combat bitterness and rise victorious like a gladiator holding the severed head of his enemy. Okay, that might be a bit much, but you know what I mean.
Tip-in is moderate carbonation burn with lots of the sweet malt and a mix of floral and citrus hops. The middle is more carbonation with a receding of most of the other flavors; it gets very mild - almost watery like a real red ale might. The finish is a spike in hops with citrus - nothing but citrus - all up in there with attitude and quite a bit of deliciousness. Yup, the finish is alright by me.
Bottom Line: A unique take on both a red and an IPA. It takes some of the best of both to make a very good beer.
3.25/5
