Year of New Beer: Citracado IPA, Stone Brewing (CA)

Written By: Dion on 08/28/2016

For their 20th Anniversary, Stone surprises no one and brews an IPA. Relying primarily on the juiciness of the Citra hop varietal, the curveball comes in the form of "avocado honey", which, in all honesty, I never knew was a thing. For some, it resembles the flavor of the avocado itself. I personally don't get that. Perhaps if I tasted it on its own, I might, but as it's used here, I don't. The nose features a grapefruit and resinous pine that is complemented by elements of bread crust and light floral notes. With warmth, some softer caramel notes and candied orange begin to break through. On the tongue, the trademark Stone hop treatment hits first, assaulting the taste buds with flavors that range from green and grassy to acidic fruits to herbal dankness. There is a certain creamy sweetness that I suppose could be attributed directly to the avocado, but it is quickly shoved aside by a slightly boozy, drying bitterness, a little spicy on the finish. Stone has always been about brash, bold hop flavor, and this is no exception. Very enjoyable, especially given its relative affordability in an ever-burgeoning craft beer pricing structure.