Draught at the brewery, 1/23/16.
Deep mahogany-to-ebony body is of indeterminable clarity but does not seem heavily hazy. Light tan head atop shows moderate retention.
Was worried this would be a roast/pine/citrus concoction, but I should have given Mystic more credit than that. I usually can’t stand black IPAs, but the fruitiness and juiciness in the nose, with only a touch of light black malt really put me at ease. No alcohol nor flaw and wonderfully light on the roasted character, letting the fruity hops do the talking. Touches of herbs and a dry floral element.
Just the right amount of maltiness, adding light caramel, balances the moderate roast and hop bitterness perfectly. Ultra soft, malty texture with tight carbonation and just tons of juicy fruits, wintergreen, light earthiness and light chocolate on the end. Incredibly drinkable; almost finished the thing before really thinking much about it. Awesome.