Beer Review #140
This review is a revisit of Double Crooked Tree. On November 8th, 2010 I reviewed a bottle that had aged about 8 months. I didn't fear it because the bottle even states that the beer ages well. At that time I rated the beer a 70.75/100 (Click for the previous review). When I had a chance to pick up a fresh bottle I took the chance to see if it would be any different. Although this new bottle did not have a date on it, when I purchased it I was assured it was the freshest batch available.
My Thoughts: This brew poured a hazy rust color with very little head. The smell was strong and well balanced. Earthy hops and a caramel sweetness jumped out of the glass to my nose. The taste of this beer is Hops, Malt and Hops. Citrus and flowery hops with some pine resin are up front and bold and are backed up with a smooth caramel sweetness. What was different this time was the malt didn't cover up the hops like in the previous review. The bitterness of this DIPA was allowed to shine through while still having a strong backbone. The lingering hop bitterness you are left with was very pleasant. The body on this beer was medium with a sticky/creamy, mildly carbonated mouthfeel. The drinkablity of this batch of Double Crooked Tree was much better than my previous experience. Personally I wouldn't age this beer because I liked it much better fresh! This beer scored 17 points higher fresh vs the 8 month old bottle!
Serving Type: 12oz Bottle
My Rating: Overall 87.75/100
Look:4.25 | Smell:4.25 | Taste:4.5 | MouthFeel:4.5 | Drinkability:4.25
I love this beer! Glad to know I should continue drinking it fresh. Very nice review.
ReplyDeleteYou should try to get your hands on something from Dark Horse's "PA" series - IPAs made with different fruits. Tried the PrickPA IPA this weekend and it was really unique. Would have to have more than a sample to fully formulate an opinion, though. Not sure how easy it is to come by in Cleveland, though. We may need to set up an out-of-state beer co-op around here.