Red Clay IPA by Red Clay Brewing Co. is an American IPA and was judged as such (BJCP sub-style 21A). It poured with a slightly cloudy and amber hue into the glass, forming a moderate white head with sustained retention. Its aroma was restrained at first, but ultimately featured both moderate maltiness and at least an equal measure of hops with resiny and citrus notes. The flavor profile established the solid pale and caramel malt backbone suggested in the aroma, and the hops did likewise, albeit somewhat simplistically. This ale is smooth with a moderate body, with no pronounced alcohol warmth. This is not a deep, rich powerful IPA but provides good drinkability for those not in the mood for an extreme “hop-bomb.” In this case, the ample but not excessive hops make a strong case for the merits of balance in some American IPAs.