No replies to this topic

[Tim the Enchanter]

I bought an Otter Creek sampler pack the other day and tried the Alpine Black IPA. I have to admit, I wasn't sure what to expect from this beer. I've done some research since and discovered that the Black IPA is not unique, and there are other commercial examples. Apparently there is even an AHA designation. Who knew?I was surprised that I liked this beer as much as I did. It is a black color from roasted grains, but has the hop-forward character of an IPA. The roasty grains don't make the strong character I'd expect in a porter. In fact, they seem mostly to be there for color and shock value in this beer. Further research is needed, maybe a side-by-side tasting with a regular IPA to determine what I really think, but I was pleasantly surprised by this beer.