While the stats for Blood Brothers Brewing's Grannyvine IPA are very
similar to those of their Shumei IPA (both clock in at 7% alcohol, come
in 500mL bottles, and pour with bright white heads), the beers are
actually fairly distinct. My analysis of Shumei had already been
recorded, so I'll save my ink for Grannyvine.
A hazy,
bright gold ale, Grannyvine has a seductive, juicy aroma; a nose rich
in both bitterness and tropical fruit. The flavour also has bursts of
fruit; namely mango and pineapple. Added to this are deeply bitter hops
elements. With lip-pursing dryness through the finish, this beer has a
lot of big positives. The one stumbling block that I found was an
initially thin mouthfeel. For a beer at this strength and with this
aromatic depth, I wanted a comparably punchy tone. However, it should be
noted that, though the initial mouthfeel is a touch too thin, much
ground is made up by the time the arid finish rolls around.
On
the whole, Grannyvine is another engrossing IPA from Toronto's Blood
Brothers. While it isn't as distinctive or impressive as the flagship
Shumei, it's still a very nice brew--adequately strong, amply
flavourful, and agreeably bitter. Will most definitely buy again.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
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