Shipyard XXXX IPA

A part of "Pugsley's Signature Series", Shipyard XXXX IPA is produced in Portland, Maine, by the Shipyard Brewing Co. Its sold in 625mL bottles topped with gold foil and contains a pretty badass 9.3% alcohol.  The brassy, orange coloured ale is cloudy and topped with an unyielding cream head.

Shipyard XXXX IPA has an aroma that speaks of citrus hoppiness. The flavour has that same citrus hops presence, but balanced against a boozy malt-splosion that encompasses caramel and brown sugar. It has considerable boozy warmth and a fairly hoppy finish.

I know that Porland, Oregon is a big brewing hub in the United States--it's cool to see Porland, Maine asserting itself as well. This is not a beer for the meek. It's pretty formidable, with a well-heeled, nuanced flavour and alcohol to spare. Clear your schedule and settle in with a bottle of this stuff for a lovely evening.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10.