Five Single Hop Ales

July 1, 2010 By Rick Lyke

Bison Organic IPA: This beer pours an attractive copper color with a rocky head. Willamette hops are used in this ale and, combined with the ample malt, gives the brew a subtle, green grass bitterness. Nice opening aroma that is not overly hop intense.

Bear Republic Rebellion: This 6.4 percent ABV ale is hopped with Warrior. The brew is a golden orange color and has a nice spicy nose. The flavor is well rounded, with nice citrus notes.

Founders Centennial IPA: This unfiltered IPA is 7.4 percent ABV and 65 IBUs. Slightly cloudy amber color with a moderately sized firm head. Overall inviting wild flower and spice flavor profile.

Ithaca AlpHalpHa Double Honey Bitter is brewed with organic barley, New York-grown Cascade hops, local alfalfa honey and Cayuga Lake water. Pours a bright golden color with a thick rocky head. Plenty of floral hop aroma, crisp bitter flavor and dry finish. The brew is part of Ithaca’s limited release Excelsior! Series and weighs in at 8.5 percent ABV.

Saint Arnold Elissa IPA is made using a single hop variety, Cascades. The beer pours a nice golden bronze color with a relatively thick head that laces the glass. Floral hop aroma and a wonderful full flavor profile. Grapefruit and slight pine backbone. Good body from a healthy amount of malt.