Style: Session IPA
Brewery: Founders
Origin: USA
Size: 33cl
Alcohol: 4.7%
Price: 25kr
Systembolaget: 1126
This was first made by Founders Brew master Jeremy Kosmicki so he could enjoy something a bit lighter in a brewery based on rather heavy beers. It was first brewed in 2009 and has since become a fan favourite in their range. This is produced using wheat, flaked corn, flaked oats and Crystal malt, then hopped with Crystal, Cascade, Amarillo and Simcoe. It is currently rated as 98/100 on Ratebeer for its style.
This had a light golden colour with a hint of haze and a thick white head that held rather well. It also seemed to be fairly well carbonated. The aroma was quite prominent, with grapefruit and resin at the forefront, along with digestive biscuits and peach. This had a great balance between the malt and hops, with both evenly accounted for on the palate. The grainy biscuit malts were well-matched with the fruity pith, along with a dry note in the mouth that came through slowly after swallowing.
This is an exceptional session IPA. I have had so many session beers which are low in character and flavour, but this really pulls through on both accounts. I understand why this has been a standard beer in their range for 15 years, and I’m sure it will be that way for a long time to come!