Style: Red DIPA
Brewery: U&me Beer
Origin: Sweden
Size: 33cl
Alcohol: 9.2%
Price: 39kr
Systembolaget:
Opening in 2010 and based in central Umeå, U&Me Beer is currently Umeå’s oldest brewery. This beer was first released in February 2023 and the can continues the bird theme that runs through most of the U&me Beer label artwork. This was producing using pale ale, melanoid and carared malts along with Columbus, Centennial, Amarillo and Simcoe hops to finish. The reason I really wanted this beer in this tasting is that it’s a rather unique style. There are not many red IPAs produced, and therefore even less double red IPAs. It is always fun to try lesser known styles, so I knew this would be a perfect candidate for the tasting.
This was deep amber to ruby colour with a thin head that didn’t hold very long. The body was medium and had a lovely shine to it as well that really emphasised those ruby notes. The aroma was an aromatic blend of brown sugar, burnt caramel, hard bread, rye and toffee. These aromas follow into the taste, with the burnt sweetness slowly developing into a rye bread aftertaste. The alcohol was warming in the throat, but it didn’t feel out of place in the taste profile and never took over. The carbonation levels were fine for the style and helped to accentuate the robust roasted flavours.
I can’t remember the last time I tried a double RIPA, which is a shame because it’s a character rich and interesting style. I am pleased to say they did a good job with this beer, with both the aroma and flavours packing a punch yet remaining balanced. A job well done!