urban trappist brewery
composite from various wikimedia images
Biography
You want the truth? You can't handle the truth. And unless you're a hophead, you can't handle this beer. That said, the intent of this brew was to feature the hops but include ample balance from other elements to make it delicious and drinkable, not just a thrill ride of IBUs. So, some rye in the mash for added body and grit.
Creation
The plan got altered by an accidentally doubly-long boil, which pushed the bitterness higher than intended, but not higher than desired. After primary fermentation, brandy-soaked cherries took a taste of the beer, decided their assistance was most necessary, and imparted some sweetness, depth, tartness, and more delicious alcohol. A dry-hopping of Cascade and Willamette hops put the final touches to temper the results of getting distracted from the boil.
Stats
Style: India Pale AleBase Grain: Maris Otter
Adjunct Grains: Rye, Aromatic, Caravienne, Victory
Hops: Cascade, Willamette
Dry Hop: Willamette, Cascade
Curious Additives: Cherries in the secondary
Yeast: WLP 023 - Burton Ale Yeast
OG: 1.054 / FG: 1.006
ABV: 6.4%
Color: Cherry, duh
Head: Correct
Flavors: Dark citrusy aroma, solid bitterness, cherry undertones, hint of orange, crisp, lingering finish