Hop Rising Double IPA

Hop Rising Double IPA is a good effort, though it is lacking in certain aspects that would make it great. The aroma has a light to moderate level of woody and citrus hop aroma with a touch of background spiciness. This brilliantly clear, amber-colored brew has a solid lingering white head, but the flavor is, unfortunately, somewhat murky and lacking the brightness that is seen in the best examples of the style. The hop character, which should be the star of the show in a Double IPA, exhibits a moderate hop bitterness and surprisingly subtle hop flavor, both being rather low for the style. There is a moderate malt backbone in balance with the hop character, as well as residual sweetness from the alcohol. The finish retains the same characteristics as seen in the initial flavor profile, and the brew has a medium body with moderate carbonation. Overall this is a nice brew, but a greater, fresher hop expression would improve the overall package.