Willoughby Ear-Ache My... IPA

On tap at brewpub

This was the last sample I tried on a recent visit. It was a nice way to cap off happy hour. It strikes an eerie resemeblance to Stone’s XIth Anniversary IPA which doesn’t suprise me too much; the brewer did come from there last year. If you can make it while this is still on tap be sure to order a pint to finish off the night.

Aroma / Appearance - The one finger white head contrasted against the mildly black body below. It was tough to see what was going on between the walls of the glass; this almost had the appearance of a porter or a stout. The aroma quickly dispelled those notions. Lemongrass, black pepper, other spices and a vague sweetness aggressively made their presence known from the start.

Flavor / Palate - The balance of malts and hops was a nice discovery. Rather than taking over from the start the hops slowly unfolded on the tongue. The florally experience was accompanied by black pepper, slightly overcooked dinner rolls and rye toast. The dry bitter finish capped things off nicely. This was a nice find; if it were bottled I would have picked up another to try again.

On tap @ the brewpub: Pours a dark brown with a tan head. Aroma, citrus, some slight roasted notes, herbal. Flavor, some roasted notes, slight chocolate, fresh citrus hoppy notes, a medium bitterness on the finish. Pretty tasty brew.

Had on tap at the brew pub. Appearance was very dark for an IPA. Not used to that. Aroma was roasted coffee and hops. Taste was the same. A bit too bitter for my likeing.