Wolaver's India Pale Ale - Organic

Wolaver's India Pale Ale is a traditionally unfiltered American IPA packed with a clean bittering hop and a distinctly floral aroma. Like other traditional Wolaver's beers, this handcrafted brew uses the finest local Vermont and domestic ingredients.

Alcohol Content: 6.5%
Malts: 2-Row, Munich, Caramel, ?
Hops: Magnum, Fuggles, Centennial

Medium: 12oz bottle poured into a pint glass
Price: $17.00 for a 12-pack sampler purchased at City Market

Aroma: A delightful, pungent floral aroma is subdued by a pleasant citrusy orange aroma - there in lies a subtle fruity & yeasty character as well. Sweet caramel malts are only vaguely present along with a hint of spiciness that quickly fades. Overall fantastic.
Appearance: An almost white, one finger head is formed with little bubbles scattered on the surface. Minimally slow bubbling up the glass suggests a moderately low carbonation. Good lacing and great head retention all the way until the very last drop. A dark golden ale with hints of orange hues describes this beer best (not to be related with the pleasant orange citrus aroma). Slightly hazy. Yeast sediment present in the bottle.
Flavor: Sweet malts are almost completely overlooked as most of the sensations are derived from different parts of the pallet - mainly sides and roof of mouth. There is a slight degree of toasty and even grainy character from Munich Malts. A very clean bitterness rolls over the tongue about mid-taste, followed by a citrusy (& slightly dry) aftertaste similar to eating orange zest.
Mouthfeel: Carbonation seems appropriate - moderate. A slight alcohol warmth is present within a medium body. Perhaps some astringency from dry-hopping rates.
Overall Impression: The aroma is absolutely phenomenal; In comparison, the flavor and mouthfeel were a little more lackluster. I would have liked to see a little more of a sweet malt presence to balance the drying finish. Either drink in moderation or have a nice water to complement its dry, bitter quality.