7

Appearance - 8 | Aroma - 7 | Flavor - 7 | Texture - 6 | Overall - 7

Draught at the brewery, 7/16/16.
Deep, brassy-gold body shows a light haze and a medium-sized white head atop. Moderate to moderately strong retention.
Interesting nose, definitely a West Coast/New England hybrid, with the West Coast nature winning out, though it’s not obnoxiously full of pine and grapefruit as many in the style are. Rather, ruby red-like grapefruit notes mix with light mango and pineapple, with a strong spiciness, and light nectarine-peach on the end. Maybe a touch of alcohol dryness and plentiful biscuity malts, including a dollop of caramel, to balance.
Fruity, quite bitter, but not resinous and no stewed hop character thankfully. Lots of spiciness and nectarine, with dry pineapple and more grapefruit/orange on the finish. Sweetens somewhat with warming, giving good balance and a honey and light caramel maltiness. Seems like a big version of Keeper and that one was enjoyable. Touch of alcohol or other sharpness detracts slightly. Carbonation is medium and fairly engaging.