This week, Bay Area breweries released different IPAs showcasing specific hops and malts rather than overpowering the beers with additives. Among the various IPAs is an imperial stout reminiscent of chocolate and coffee, and a lighter pale ale to satisfy crisp, citrus cravings.
East Bay
Temescal Brewing — California sourced malts are showcased this week in the Oakland brewery’s new release, New Malt, Who Dis? Featuring four varieties of malt from Admiral Maltings and Centennial, Comet, Chinook and Zeus hops, this IPA has classic aromas of grapefruit and pine.
Peninsula
Alpha Acid — The Bourbon Barrel Constrictor imperial stout made a comeback to the Belmont taproom, offering a flavor profile so rich you’ll mistake it for Jeff Bezos. Half the batch was aged in Buffalo Trace Bourbon barrels and the other half in whiskey soaked charred oak, giving this brew a tannic kick on top of the decadent flavors of mocha, truffle and vanilla. At 13 percent alcohol, you’d better arrange for a ride home.
Another notable release from Alpha Acid is the BLDG 121 Unit 11. This West Coast single hop pale ale spotlights the Simcoe hop, giving us hints of pine and citrus with aromas of mango in a 5.9 percent alcohol pint.
San Francisco
Barebottle Brewing — A few new beers hit the taps at Barebottle this week, including the Medusa’s Game Face IPA. Made with Medusa hops, this 6 percent alcohol Red IPA is fruity, floral and malty.
The Palesforce.com pale ale was also officially released, ready to ease your mind with its light and crisp nature. Mandarina Bavaria hops give this hazy brew a citrusy crispness while Nugget hops keep it herbal and earthy.
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