Lagunitas (Chicago, Illinois) Maximus Colossal IPA is a bold, in your face brew that knows exactly what it is: a big, hoppy, unapologetic double IPA. At 9% ABV, this beer doesn’t mess around, and it’s perfect for fans of hefty hop-forward brews. But does it deliver on its promises? Let’s crack it open and dive in.
First Impressions
Pouring this beer into a glass, you’re greeted with a glowing amber hue that’s as inviting as a sunset. A frothy white head crowns the pour, lingering just enough to lace the glass with creamy remnants as you sip. The aroma hits you immediately…pungent citrus and pine dominate, backed by a malty sweetness that hints at caramel. It’s the kind of scent that screams, “This is going to be a hoppy ride.”
Taste and Mouthfeel
The first sip is a flavor bomb. Upfront, you get a wave of juicy grapefruit, orange zest, and pine resin…classic West Coast IPA vibes. But Maximus doesn’t stop there. A solid malt backbone balances the hops with a caramel and biscuit-like richness that keeps things from veering into tongue numbing bitterness. The high ABV brings a noticeable warmth as you drink, but it’s smooth, not harsh.
The finish is long and dry, with lingering notes of pine and a subtle sweetness that rounds it out. The carbonation level is spot-on, just enough to lift the flavors without overwhelming your palate. It’s bold, but surprisingly easy to drink for a beer with this much going on.
What Stands Out
The balance is impressive for a double IPA. While many beers in this category can feel like a one note hop explosion, Maximus manages to keep its sweetness in check without overshadowing the hops. The citrus and pine flavors are bright and fresh, but the malt profile adds depth, making it a more complex experience than your average hop bomb.
Room for Improvement
If we’re nitpicking, this beer might be a bit much for those who aren’t fully on board the hop train. The bitterness, while not extreme for a double IPA, could still be overwhelming for newcomers. Additionally, the booziness becomes more pronounced as the beer warms up, which might turn off drinkers who prefer a stealthier high ABV experience.
The Verdict
Lagunitas Maximus Colossal IPA is a fantastic example of what a double IPA can be…bold, flavorful, and unapologetically hoppy. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel, but it delivers exactly what you’d hope for in this style. It’s a big, satisfying brew that highlights the best of hops and malt.
Ratings
Appearance: 9/10
Aroma: 8.5/10
Flavor: 9/10
Mouthfeel: 8/10
Overall: 8.8/10
If you love West Coast IPAs or are in the mood for a beer that doesn’t hold back, Maximus is well worth a try. Just be ready for a colossal experience. This beer doesn’t play small!
If you’ve had a Lagunitas Maximus Colossal IPA, please share your thoughts about it below.
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