Beer Pick of the Week - Hop Meadow India Pale Ale
Thomas Hooker Ales and Lagers
Bloomfield, CT
6.5% ABV
Nothing fancy here, just a well-balanced, fresh-tasting American-style IPA from this underappreciated New England brewery. It pours a fetchingly clear auburn with a sticky, off-white head that settles to a nice, tight cap. A bit of swirling releases a bright aroma of leafy, piney hops. After that introduction, the solid malt backbone comes as pleasant surprise. Dry and woody, like a good Scotch, the malts set the stage for a lingering, bitter finish of grapefruit oils, pine, and a hint of ginger and cinnamon spice. A full and creamy mouthfeel and gentle carbonation lend it a superb drinkability.