Brewer: Russel Brewing, Surrey BC
Style: India Pale Ale
ABV: 6.5%
IBUs: 53

Description: Brewed in honor of Russell Brewing’s 19th birthday, this India Pale Ale pays tribute to one of their brewers – Scott Bohanna-Martin‘s – Australian roots, This they did by using  Galaxy, Ella and Topaz hops that were grown Down Under.

Tasting Notes: This was a nice twist on the conventional West Coast IPA. In many ways, I was reminded of a fresh-hopped IPA and an ESB, in that it packed some strong notes of herbs, citrus rind, grass and pine, but in a way that slightly dry and subtle. Despite the moderately bitter rating of 53 IBUs, it was quite hop-forward, and had a strong but smooth malt backbone.

Appearance: Dark ruby, clear, good foam retention and carbonation
Nose: Strong hop-forward nose, grassy, herbal notes, hint of citrus and pine
Taste: Rich malt, strong infusion of herbal, bitter hops, citrus rind and grass
Aftertaste: Lingering bitterness and notes of citrus rind and herbs
Overall: 8.5/10