Heady Topper

When you find out a local bar just got Heady Topper cans in stock.. YOU GO!  Already widely regarded as one of the top double IPAs in the country, it's gained a new status since last spring when Hurricane Irene damaged the brewpub (which will not re-open, technically..  ask if you're confused, or google it).  They were already super-small batch beers.. this is now on must-have lists whenever it's released.

First of all, I LOVE being able to buy CRAFT tall boys at a bar!  A sleek, sexy can at that!  As mentioned above it's a DIPA/Imperial at 8.0% ABV and a whopping 120 IBU's!!!!!  Go Alchemist!  An unbelievable hazy golden orange/yellow pour with the perfect head.  (yeah, yeah.. it says to only drink from the can.. but sweet swaddled baby Jesus.. I HATE cans..  even the craft ones give a horrible metallic tinge to the taste)
Beautiful pine and floral hop notes, underlying citrus fruits, actually some mango and sweet apple as well with just hints of spice and bready malts to back it up.  A hop bomb, for sure, but nowhere near overpowering.  Complex, yet perfectly balanced.  Spicy, almost gin-like hops at some point, then bright citrus floral at others. Piney to grapefruit with a nice sweetness kicking around in between.  Again.. I can't stress it enough, ultra-balanced beer.  Totally love the inclusion of the tropical citrus in this and the hidden ABV is killer..  completely unlike all the others, the bitterness is smooth not thick or resiny.  If you see this at a bar, or if it ever makes it way to MA packies.. GET IT GET IT GET IT!!!