 DrBayern (974), Morehead City, North Carolina, USA
Dec 27, 2005
I did a little mini tasting to compare this with Victory Hop Devil and Great Divide IPA, compared side by side. The Stone is a faintly hazy gold topped by a medium white head. Fine bubbles that stick to the glass, a very inviiting look indeed. Beautiful aroma of light citrus and floral hops that suggests the treasure that awaits. Smooth and lightly carbonated, not at all harsh like some IPA’s out there. The flavor is that of citrus over a nice caramel malt backbone. This beer is just beautifully balanced. The dry finish is not overly bitter or offending, the downfall of many IPa’s. Just a marvelously crafted beer. With regard to my impressions of the GD IPA and the Victory Hop Devil next to the Stone offering, I wrote down my impressions and ratings, and then went back to see how I had rated them before, and there was little difference. They are both very good IPA’s, but the Stone is the best that I’ve had to date.
JCastner (38), New York, USA
Oct 4, 2008 Pours a light copper with faint white head. Fantastic appearance. Aroma is of caramel, some fruit (esters at play), and plenty of American citrusy, resiny goodness. Medium body. Taste is of several varieties of sweet malt, followed by the flavor of American hops. Notice I didn’t say bitterness. Although over 70 IBUs, the flavor takes center stage. A great example of how flavoring hops should be used. One of my favorites.
A_R (318), Georgia, USA
Oct 4, 2008 This is a good IPA. Not only were the hops not biting, but there was a solid malt base that lingers in the aftertaste.
arrogantb (24), Denver, Colorado, USA
Oct 3, 2008 09/04/08 22oz
I had to re-review this to be fair. The only hop presence seems to be a very strong bitterness. Maybe I got a bad bottle but this sure was a disappointing IPA and I used to really like it.
12 oz bottle which I poured into a ruination mug. The color is dark yellow and almost clear. The smell is wonderful but not overwhelming. I think I can smell grapefruit, but better than grapefruit (cause I don’t like grapefruit). The taste is slightly bitter and the mouthfeel is pleasant. This beer goes down way too easy and that is why it is one of my favorites. This is yet another winner from the good folks down in San Diego.
Serving type: bottle
Reviewed on: 02-16-2007 01:20:05
Strykzone (1007), Wood River, Illinois, USA
Oct 2, 2008 Like the double IPA I had last night, this beer is much more golden in color than most. It displays only a hint of amber hue. A nice light yellow 2 finger head has good retention and leaves an oily lacing. Aroma is hops galore with some dry hopping evident. Nothing subtle about the flavor. The hops come right at you with pine and grapefruit in the forefront. Grass, biscuit, and floral notes as well. Just the right amount of sweetness takes the edge off but still lets the hops star. Incredibly well crafted.
jjuf1853 (208), Land O Lakes, Florida, USA
Oct 1, 2008 Bottle pours a clear golden copper color with a decent sized white head. Full bodied citrus hops aroma. Great flavor with the perfect amount of bitterness in the finish. I really like this one!
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