Today you get to hear one of many brew reviews to come at TSC. This weeks brew features a session IPA from Founders, a brewery located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Founders Brewing Company was started back in 1997. The Founders Family, a group of passionate beer enthusiasts, has grown around this simple philosophy: “We don’t brew beer for the masses. Instead, our beers are crafted for a chosen few, a small cadre of renegades and rebels who enjoy a beer that pushes the limits of what is commonly accepted as taste.” I have tried several Founders beers in the past, so I thought I’d give this one a chance, which ended up being a excellent decision. It’s the perfect reward for an honest day’s work and the ultimate companion to celebrate life’s simple pleasures.
Founders All Day IPA Session Ale
Availability: All Year Long
Serving Type: Bottle
ABV: 4.70%
Appearance: Partly hazy with a golden hue that has a thin white head that fades to leave a light halo and thin clouds.
Smell: Strong hop nose, a powerful but pleasant IPA aroma. Aromas of hops, generic pine and citrus, light malts, pretty standard.
Taste: Taste follows, the big hop character of the nose. It’s light weight, but full flavored. Quality hops are there, as well as a pinch of grapefruit. Lovely bitterness mid-tongue.
Mouthfeel: Crisp, dry, light-bodied. Spot on carbonation. Dry, happy mouth feel, in a lighter weight, fresh, light, sessionable IPA.
Drinkability: A low (by IPA standards) ABV makes All Day particularly drinkable. A great default choice if you just want a no-fuss but enjoyable IPA.
Overall thoughts: This is the standard by which “session IPAs” should be judged. I’ve had others and they really aren’t close. This beer makes me think a bit. Which I like. It’s perfect if you don’t like overly bitter. Glad these are popping up in Alabama now. Would definitely buy a 6er of it again. I could see myself quaffing these down this all summer if I had the chance.
Freshness Rating: 7.5/10
Until next time. Roll IPA!
