So I picked up a bomber of this brew because it was relatively inexpensive (under five bucks). I just opened it up and poured a glass, took a sip, swished it around my mouth and was struck at what a tremendous treat this beer is. Earlier, I had been wondering what a good, inexpensive go to alternative IPA would be for Hopslam might be. While these beers differ in many ways, this is exactly what I had in mind.

It's not a DIPA but a strong IPA to be sure and one with tremendous character start to finish. Pours nice with a bit of weight. Color is a dark red/amber. Aroma is a nice blend of spice and citrus with a floral element rounding it out. Taste, oh the taste, it's like having a crate of grapefruits surrounded by loaves of rye bread shoved in to your mouth served by a caramel spoon. The lingering flavor is all rye and caramel.

This is a tremendous RyePA and just shot up to the top of list of go to brews. Nothing fancy, other than the rye perhaps, but a truly, truly solid ale. I would love to have this as a pairing with a smoked white cheese like Gouda with a dry Italian sausage like a Salame Toscano and I could see this going with olives, smoked salmon, onions and capers nicely.