Year of New Beer: Hoplar Imperial IPA, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery (VA)

Written By: Dion on 04/06/2015

Big aromatics on this one as juicy pineapple and candied apricot sit atop a nice caramel malt backbone, with a certain woody spice element. The tongue finds incredible balance as the hop bitterness comes as both citrus and earthy pine, while the malt provides a layer of brown sugar. The toasted poplar on which this beer was aged contributes a mildly spicy, almost tangy note. In an age where most imperial IPAs just beat you over the head with bitterness, this one exercises restraint and innovation in nearly equal proportions. Outstanding.