Today we once again pay homage to the good people at Enegren Brewing Co. In addition to Valkyrie California Altbier, the brewery boasts Protector Imperial IPA on their roster of year round beers. Like many West Coast IPAs, Protector packs a heavy punch of flavor. A complex and aggressive hopping schedule gives the beer its characteristic aromas and flavors that are well balanced against a strong malt bill.
Appearance
Golden honey in color, the beer is bright, clear, and clean looking. A finger and a half of white head leaves wonderful lacing on the glass.
Aroma
Distinct aromas of West Coast hops include orange peel, grapefruit, and pine resin. Damp grass and freshly cut hay are also present. Undertones of malt come bubbling up from the glass and complement the hop notes with the sweetness of caramel and toffee.
Taste
Hop notes assault the mouth on the first sip with orange rind, apricot, and pine. A pleasant bitterness lingers on the sides of the tongue until the next sip. Hope notes are well balanced against the caramel and honey sweetness of the malt.
Mouthfeel
The beer is medium bodied and perfectly carbonated. Alcohol, at 7.5% ABV, is mostly lost in the flavor complexity, but is just noticeable with a slightly warming effect.
Drinkability
Tipping the scales at 100 IBUs, one would expect Protector to be a tongue busting hop bomb. While the is certainly a hop forward beer, Enegren has done a wonderful job not falling victim to making a beer bitter for the sake of making it bitter. Big hops flavors are mellowed out and balanced with a well crafted malt backbone. Clearly a lot of thought went into designing this beer. Overall grade for Protector Imperial IPA: A-
Protector Imperial IPA
Up next on Tuesday Tasting: Alaskan Brewing Company Barley Wine