Centennial IPA

Centennial IPA is a hearty India Pale Ale born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the Founders Brewing Company. It's sold in 355mL bottles, contains 7.2% alcohol, and clocks in at a nicely bitter 65 IBUs. According to the packaging, it's a dry hopped and unfiltered I.P.A. A very strange label features two dudes in togas who might be angels(?).

Centennial pours an ever-so-sligtly hazy amber-gold colour, underneath an off-white head that quickly recedes into a fine white coaster. It has very little carbonation. The aroma is mild, but enticing, and features some fruity sweetness, some caramel, and a hoppy backbone.

This brew has great numbers for an I.P.A.  At 7.2%, it's on the strong end of the spectrum, and the 65 IBUs make for a nice, bitter sipper without being a hop monster. For all of that, though, the flavour is actually quite restrained. It's bitter, particularly at the finish, but there are also notes of caramel and raisin, and a malt profile that is worthy of mention.  I wouldn't complain if the flavour was a touch more robust, but this is a well conceived and nicely crafted ale.

Rating: 8.0 out of 10.