Face Melter Hibiscus IPA

Burnt City Brewing’s Face Melter Hibiscus IPA had close to a medium high level of peach and passionfruit hop aroma at the forefront. The floral tones of hibiscus intermingled at a moderate level. The beer also had a low, pleasant grassy tone. It was hard to tell if it was hop or hibiscus derived. The malt backbone was low and grainy and the fermentation character was clean.

The beer was rose colored with a golden edge to the pink. Light haze and a moderate, pink tinged ivory head with good retention completed the appearance.

In the flavor, medium hibiscus character had a hint of vegetal/green plant material as part of the package. Hop flavor was medium and presented more generically fruity than what was noted in the aroma. The medium malt flavor had a biscuity, almost buttery character of rich base malt. Medium high bitterness and medium harsh astringent flavors lingered into the finish.

The body was a little heavy, close to medium full and medium carbonation was observed. There was a medium low drying astringency that lingered on the palate.

This beer smelled great but some harsh, lingering notes in bittering, coupled with an overly heavy malt character and a somewhat lower hop flavor made the sipping less enjoyable than the smelling. A simpler grist would probably showcase the hibiscus and hops more. It would be awesome if they would lessen the harsh notes, boost the hop flavor, and let this one shine!