Chef/Owner Marcus Guiliano invited me into Aroma Thyme Bistro, in Ellenville, NY to taste their newest beer on tap; Harpoon IPA. Harpoon's beer checks in at a relatively strong 5.9% and is brewed with American Cascade hops and three different malts. The beer poured a golden yellow color with a inch high, frothy, white head. There was some floating sediment that made its way into the glass from the keg. The aroma is clean and hoppy, with the Cascade hops dominating.
There is some malt up front before the hops really start to show through. The body is pretty dry, yet a little thinner than most American IPA's with the hops showing through more on the aroma and finish than the body. The beer leaves a decent amount of lace on the glass.
Overall, I really like this beer. The lighter body makes this a perfect IPA for the summer. Harcore hopheads may look for a beer with a little more bite in the body, but I enjoy Harpoon's version as I can enjoy more than one without a glass of water nearby. This beer would pair very well with any of Chef Guilano's Thai dishes.
2 comments:
I'm always pleased to find IPAs with a little less bite. The trend toward face-suckingly bitter beers has played out. Long Trail makes a great traditional IPA. I will have to give Harpoon's a try next time I fire up the grill.
I do like this beer for the same characteristics you mentioned. It does not assault your tongue the way other IPA's might. I also gave it a favorable review in my blog.
Cheers!
The Grim Reaper
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