Alright, let’s dive into one of the classics of the IPA world: Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA. This is a beer that’s been around for a while, and for good reason. Dogfish Head is known for pushing boundaries, but this is one of their more traditional offerings, and it still holds up. Let’s crack one open and see how it measures up!
First Impressions:
Right from the pour, you’re greeted with a beautiful golden-amber color, slightly hazy but nothing too intense. The head is fluffy, leaving some solid lacing on the glass. The aroma hits with a punch of piney hops and some subtle citrus…nothing overwhelming but enough to get your palate ready for what’s to come.
Tasting Notes:
On the first sip, the hops definitely take center stage, as you’d expect from a 60-minute continuously hopped IPA. There’s a solid bitterness (clocking in at 60 IBUs) that doesn’t shy away but also doesn’t overpower. You’ll catch flavors of pine and resin with a touch of grapefruit and lemon zest. There’s a malt backbone here, but it plays more of a supporting role, balancing out the hops with a light caramel sweetness. The mouthfeel is crisp and smooth, with medium carbonation that keeps things refreshing.
I really enjoy how balanced this beer feels overall. It’s hoppy, yes, but not a hop-bomb. It’s a good go-to IPA when you want something flavorful without getting knocked out by extreme bitterness.
Positives:
- Balance: For an IPA, the balance between the hops and malt is spot on. It’s bitter but not abrasive, and the malt gives it just enough sweetness to keep things from getting too intense.
- Drinkability: At 6% ABV, it’s right in the sweet spot where you can enjoy a couple of these without feeling overwhelmed. It’s not too heavy, making it a great beer for all sorts of occasions.
- Classic IPA Taste: If you love traditional, East Coast IPAs with piney, resinous notes and a citrusy undertone, this beer is a solid choice.
Negatives:
- Slight Hop Burn: While the continuous hopping process is cool and gives a unique flavor profile, sometimes it can leave a bit of a harsh finish on the back of the tongue. It’s not a deal-breaker, but after a couple of pints, that bitterness can build up.
- Not Super Complex: If you’re into big, juicy, modern IPAs or those with wild experimental flavors, this one might feel a bit straightforward. It’s a traditional IPA through and through, which could be a downside if you’re looking for something more adventurous.
Overall Rating:
- Appearance: 4.5/5
- Aroma: 4/5
- Taste: 4.3/5
- Mouthfeel: 4/5
- Overall: 4.2/5
Final Thoughts:
Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA is a great go-to for IPA lovers who want something reliable, flavorful, and balanced. It’s not the most mind-blowing IPA out there, but its consistency and classic profile make it a staple in the craft beer world. It’s the kind of beer you can confidently recommend to someone just getting into IPAs, but it’s also one seasoned drinkers can still appreciate for its quality and balance.
Give it a try if you haven’t yet..it’s a classic for a reason! If you have tried it, please let us know what you thought about it in the comments below.
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