That Ish Be ReDANKulous!!

     Having recently relocated and found new employment, I've been afforded the opportunity to try some of the best beer the midwest, and debatably the world, has to offer... I'm incredibly fortunate in that aspect, and even more-so that I get to share these special beverages with an abundance of beer enthusiasts... Though the new scenery is awesome, I just haven't been able to find the "sweet spot" when it comes to locating the finest craft brews in town!! Not that what I've found isn't up to par, I'm just realizing that I've possibly been spoiled at my previous residencies - At least as far as locating the best place to pick up countless intriguing bombers is concerned!!

     With that being said, I tried out a new spot to see what they had to offer, and I was, again, slightly underwhelmed in regards to their bomber selection... I must say though, if I was looking for a nice scotch or whiskey - This was ABSOLUTELY the spot I would head to!! I searched the aisles for a quick while and perused them diligently, when finally the owner asked if I had anything specific in mind... I responded that I was simply browsing and continued to keep checking things out... Shortly after our interaction, he reemerged at the end of the aisle after walking to the back room and held up Founders' "ReDANKulous" and then simply asked, "Is this the one??" And that it was... I took one look at the name and it drew me in, once I realized the label's design was composed of finely ground herb, I simply had to have it... Even though, I didn't LOVE this particular places beer selection, I'm definitely not going to write it off anytime soon after they presented me with this gem!!


Founders - ReDANKulous [Imperial Red India Pale Ale] (22oz ---> New Belgium Globe Glass : 9.5% ABV : 90 IBU)

     I popped the cap and let the beer sit for just a few minutes while I gathered my computer and glassware, which also afforded me a few extra minutes to enjoy this enticing label graphic before pouring it. A semi-aggressive pour created a two inch, pearly white head that was composed of relatively large sized bubbles... As I waited for the head to dissipate so I could note the head retention, my nasal passages were bombarded with an aromatic assault of danky, citrusy, piney hops that were devilishly alluring!! While I cleared the saliva that had made its way to my jowls, I did collect myself enough to realize the head had faded quite slowly, and left a solid retentive cap, as well as some heavy lacing along the glass walls that sat above the extremely clear blood red tinted brew... A swirl and a whiff reinvigorated the danky hop scents and once again filled my nostrils with their aromatic pleasantries!! Upon first taste, I again noted the soft citrus, orange and hints of grapefruit that the hops presented immediately after I poured the brew... Mid-palette it seemed to have developed a nice roastiness that I failed to fully depict upon immediately tasting it, and alongside the roasted characteristics was a surprisingly mellow sensation of bitterness...  I mention that it was surprisingly mellow because I feel like 90 IBUs would have made a more profound statement on my palette... As the finish rolled around, there were some malty caramel and toffee notes that showed up late to balance the hop flavor and roasty character, but the bitterness remained on the milder side... The mouthfeel of this beer is well balanced and I'd assume it to be easily approachable for those who don't fully enjoy IPAs, as well as filling enough to please even the most devout IPA connoisseur... Overall, this is one of the better IPAs I've ever had the pleasure of enjoying!! Though the flavor elements were bright and balanced, it's the outstanding presence of danky hops that played their lead role so brilliantly in this brew... The taste wasn't EXACTLY that of the sacred herb, but it was close enough that I believe it's nothing but deserving of it's title, "ReDANKulous..."