The new bar is up, running, and has begun to get stocked with some excellent beverages. The first review of those beverages is a the 471 Small Batch Double IPA from Breckenridge Brewery.
Interestingly enough I noticed that, quite subconsciously, the first new brews tucked into my beer fridge were from Colorado with the 471 from Breckenridge, a Hercules DIPA from Great Divide, and a small batch IPA from Fort Collins. I think my inner Wookie beast longs to be back in the mountains. Regardless of why I selected the brews we seem to be off to a good start
The 471 is part of Breckenridge’s limited small batch collection. The advertising initially lead me to believe it was a hop grenade but it isn’t just hoppy for the sake of being hoppy. Here is how the guys at Breckenridge describe it:
Hoppy? Brother, 471 IPA redefines hoppy.
471 is a small batch, limited edition ale that was created by our Brewmaster to separate the weak from the strong. 471 is a double IPA, that combines Pale, Munich, Caramel-30, Carapils and Torrified Wheat malts, with Chinook, Centennial, Simcoe and Fuggles hops. It has a big sweet mouthfeel, followed by more hoppiness than you’ve ever had at one time. Enjoy.
After reading this in the store I am thinking tongue numbing astringent hop bomb, I am in love, and have grabbed the last 4 pack on the shelf and made a sprint to the register. After patiently waiting for the 471 to reach the proper consumption temperature I find myself pleasantly surprised to discover something more than a hop monster but a carefully constructed brew that builds huge hop flavor without overpowering the drinker (and the tongue).
Here are the specs:
- ABV: 9.2
- Appearance: Hazy Orange Copper with a 1/2 inch creamy head. Unfiltered with bits of yeasty goodness swirling around the glass
- Aroma: Caramel, Lemon, and all manor of Hops.
- Taste: The hoppy bite that the aroma would suggest upfront. The mouthfeel is heavy and creamy. The hop bite fades to revel subtle citrus notes, sweetness, and floral accents. The finish is long and smooth.
The 471 is a richly complex IPA but manages not to be overwhelmingly astringent like some Double IPAs. It a word it is delicious but be careful the 9.2 ABV can sneak up on you. If you are looking for just a mouth drying Double IPA hop bomb than this may not be the brew for you. If you like big hop flavor but also like to taste all the components of you beer this one is one to try. Cheers!
