This week we are exploring the world of Indian Pale Ales. The IPA or Indian Pale Ale was named by European breweries during the 16th and 17th Centuries. In order to preserve the imports en route from India, hops were added to prevent spoilage by the arduous cross-oceanic voyages. Unexpectedly, the result was the distinctive taste that beer drinkers now associate with most IPA’s that dominate the present-day market. The beers available for tasting this week (Standard IPA, Double IPA a.k.a. “Imperial IPA,” Black “Cascadian” IPA, and Oak Aged IPA) are not your traditional IPA’s. Rather, we invite guests to explore newly-spawned versions and join us on a journey through the modern era – a step away from mainstream IPA’s and towards the contemporary genre and the class of developed flavors that accompany it. Rogue’s “Brutal IPA” is featured this week: a hoppy 22oz ale that does not push the taste envelope too far. The Brutal IPA is only 59 IBU’s (International Bittering Unit) – a scale used to measure the bitterness of beers. The first sip or two of this IPA should be a full in-your-face shock treatment to your tongue that gradually subsides to become a mellow and smooth choice of brew. The hint of citrus – lemon and grapefruit flavors – add a refreshing quality while not overpowering the malted flavor IPA drinkers love. Pair this with a juicy steak and enjoy it during an outside dinner in the new season. Cheers!

Beer Blog by Luke Girman, Aka… Beer Geek