One thing comes to mind when describing why High Tide IPA from Port Brewing Company is #2 on the Top 10 Harvest Beer list of this month's Draft Magazine – it's so full-bodied it tastes like an ENTIRE harvest of hops. (180 pounds to be exact.)
The Washdown:
- grassy, piney, orangey, bitter High Tide IPA (Port Brewing Company/Lost Abbey in San Marcos, CA) 6.5% ABV
While this may be a seasonal "harvest" beer, don't let the term fool you. 'Cuz this beer tastes like the farthest thing from a Pumpkin Pie or Spice treat.
Instead, the tangy sourness of this IPA will blow your mind, your nose, and that sensitive inner part of your cheek – I had a spasm with each gulp. The reason why is because its brewed with "Fresh" Yakima, Washington Hops that are "plucked straight from the vine" then processed without being dried to emphasize the full hoppy flavor. Five different kinds of Hops are used in the brew – Centennial Fresh, Chinook Fresh, Two Row Malts, Amarillo Pellets, and Port Brewing Co.'s own White Labs.
The nose is piney with distinct Orange scent. The tongue is extremely hoppy 'n bitter with an Herbal, grassy, and faint bready – not sweet – malt flavor. The finish has a harsh tangy bite that makes your cheeks quiver. The carbonation congeals to a cream inside your mouth. And the head, while frothy and pillowy, dissipates fast.
Between this seasonal beer's high hoppiness and ABV, unless you want to have a great fall, drink with caution.
P.S. my cheek is still twitching.
