Central Waters Brewing Company – Illumination Double IPA (2016)

Central Waters Brewing Company – Illumination Double IPA (2016)

Double IPA
Brewed in: Amherst, Wisconsin
2015 BJCP Style: 22A. Double IPA
ABV: 9%
Bottle
Tasting on: 3/26/16
Glass: Snifter

Aroma: Overtones of grapefruit and lemon. Undertones of pine and slightly dank hops. 9.5/10

Appearance: Golden honey. White head with moderate retention. Good clarity, but with a very slight haze that makes the beer appear to glow.  9.5/10

Flavor: Moderate hop bitterness and citrus in the beginning followed increasing bitterness and notes of pine in the middle. Very high bitterness and a hint of lemon in the end, along with just enough malt sweetness to provide a backbone for the hops.  The bitterness lasts long into the aftertaste, which ends up tasting almost exactly like a grapefruit. 19/20

Mouthfeel: Medium-full body with moderate carbonation. No noticeable alcohol despite the high ABV. 9/10

Overall Impression: The bitterness is clean and flavorful throughout due to the excellent hop profile in both the aroma and flavor.  The beer is visually beautiful. 47.5/50

Final Score: 95% = A