Oskar Blues "Tropic Mutant" IPA

When I think of Oskar Blues, I think of Dale's. Ever since I had that beer, I've been chasing that high. What was amazing is that it was just a regular pale ale, but it was so exceptional as a pale ale that it deserved the 5/5 rating that I gave it. I have had it again since, and I would not change my rating. That means that this brewery is capable of, effectively, perfection. You can't expect it in every beer, but I'm still expecting wonders out of this.

The haziness of this beer is impressive and will lead to the inevitable comparison to Bearded Iris. This, however, is not to take away from all the hazy beers out there that have been very nice. This one sports a thick head that fizzles to a very uneven, blotchy cap that leaves lacing and looks sensational. The aroma is, as it says in the name, tropical fruits. It smells good, and I'm thirsty. There is only one solution to this.

First sip is filled with flavor, and it only has the slightest hint of bitterness to the end. I point this out as the juices are seriously flowing in this beer, and I would expect the volume of hops required for such a showing would be tremendous. However, the unobtrusive malt is doing a fantastic job of not only making the bitterness stay away, but the center of the beer is almost sweet.

Tip-in starts the bitterness with tropical fruit rinds and no significant carbonation. The middle is a glorious combination of tropical fruits with a kind of cracker malt, and this sloshes down the throat in an amusing and delightful way. The finish is a return of the slight bitterness before leaving sweet fruit juice on the lips.

Bottom Line: Another excellent beer from Oskar.

4.5/5