Alright, let’s talk about Elysian Space Dust IPA…a beer that’s become a go-to for many craft beer enthusiasts. If you’re into hop-forward IPAs with a bit of a twist, this one’s worth checking out. But, of course, it’s not without a few quirks.
First Impressions
Cracking open a can or bottle, you’re immediately hit with an aromatic punch of hops. There’s a lot going on here—think citrus, pine, and some tropical fruit vibes. The pour itself is beautiful, showing off a nice golden amber color with a decent frothy white head that sticks around. It’s a beer that looks as good as it smells.
Tasting Notes
The first sip is where things get interesting. It opens with a burst of citrus—grapefruit, orange, and maybe even some lemon peel. There’s a bit of a tropical fruit undercurrent too, like mango or pineapple, which keeps things from getting too one-dimensional. As the hops hit, you get a solid piney bitterness, which is balanced nicely by a hint of sweetness. It’s not overly malty, but there’s just enough backbone to keep the hops from running wild.
As you continue drinking, the bitterness lingers, but it’s not overwhelming. You’ll notice a bit of a resinous quality, almost sticky, but in a way that hop lovers will appreciate. The finish is crisp but carries a lingering bitterness that may be a bit intense for people not used to bold IPAs.
Pros
- Hop lovers, rejoice! Space Dust brings a lot of hop flavor without being unbearably bitter. The balance between the citrusy, tropical notes and the piney bitterness works really well.
- Mouthfeel is smooth. It’s medium-bodied but feels lighter than its ABV (8.2%) would suggest. The carbonation is spot on, making it refreshing and not too heavy.
- The aroma is fantastic. You can tell you’re in for a hoppy treat from the first whiff.
Cons
- At 8.2% ABV, it can sneak up on you. It’s definitely more of a sipper, so keep that in mind if you’re planning on having more than one.
- While the bitterness is enjoyable for seasoned IPA drinkers, it might be a bit too aggressive for those who prefer a milder brew. The aftertaste can be a little harsh, especially as it warms up.
- Some may find the flavor profile a bit predictable. Once you’ve had a few sips, there aren’t many surprises. It’s a well-made IPA, but doesn’t necessarily break new ground.
Overall Rating
- Aroma: 8.5/10
- Appearance: 8/10
- Flavor: 8/10
- Mouthfeel: 7.5/10
- Drinkability: 7/10
Final Thoughts
Elysian Space Dust is a solid choice for hop heads. It’s packed with flavor, and the balance between citrus and bitterness is enjoyable. That said, it’s definitely on the stronger side in both alcohol content and hop intensity, so it may not be for everyone. If you’re into West Coast IPAs or just love a bold, hop-forward beer, this one’s a win. But if you’re not a fan of lingering bitterness, it might be a bit much.
If you’ve tried a Space Dust, please leave your thoughts about it in the comments section below.
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