Introduction to Wallenpaupack Brewing Company and Inside Edge IPA
Wallenpaupack Brewing Company, founded in 2017, is a renowned craft beer brewery located in Hawley, Pennsylvania. Situated near the picturesque Lake Wallenpaupack, this brewery has quickly established itself as a pivotal player in the American craft beer scene. Known for its dedication to quality and innovation, Wallenpaupack Brewing Company has earned a solid reputation for producing a wide variety of unique and flavorful beers that appeal to both casual drinkers and beer aficionados alike.
Among its diverse offerings, the Inside Edge IPA stands out as a quintessential example of an American Style IPA. This beer is characterized by its robust hop profile and balanced malt backbone, encapsulating the essence of what many seek in an IPA. With an alcohol content of 7%, Inside Edge IPA strikes a harmonious balance between potency and drinkability, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate a well-crafted IPA.
The Inside Edge IPA tasting, conducted on December 13, 2023, provided an opportunity to explore this beer in a detailed and structured manner. This date is significant as it marks the seasonal release of the Inside Edge IPA, aligning with the brewery’s tradition of launching special editions to coincide with particular times of the year. The tasting was carried out in a controlled environment, ensuring that all aspects of the beer’s flavor profile, aroma, and appearance could be thoroughly assessed.
Wallenpaupack Brewing Company takes a meticulous approach to crafting its IPAs, leveraging both traditional and modern brewing techniques. Their process typically involves the use of high-quality hops and malts, combined with precise brewing methods to achieve the desired flavor complexity and consistency. This dedication to excellence is evident in the Inside Edge IPA, which showcases their commitment to producing top-tier craft beers that resonate with both the local community and the broader craft beer audience.
Tasting Notes and Overall Impression
Wallenpaupack Brewing Company’s Inside Edge IPA presents a captivating sensory experience from the moment it is poured. The appearance of this American-style IPA is marked by its vibrant amber hue, which gleams with remarkable clarity. A persistent, frothy white head crowns the beer, showcasing admirable head retention that enhances its visual appeal.
As for the aroma, Inside Edge IPA reveals a complex hop profile. The first impression is one of bright citrus, with dominant notes of grapefruit and orange zest. This is complemented by underlying layers of pine and subtle floral hints, which add depth and intrigue. A resinous backbone ties these elements together, promising a multi-dimensional olfactory experience.
On tasting, the flavor profile of Inside Edge IPA is both balanced and robust. The malt backbone is sturdy yet not overpowering, providing a slightly sweet, bready canvas for the hops to shine. Hop bitterness is pronounced but well-integrated, delivering a sharp yet harmonious bitterness that IPA enthusiasts will appreciate. Notable flavors include a blend of tropical fruits, such as mango and passionfruit, with a touch of earthy pine and a hint of caramel from the malt.
The mouthfeel of Inside Edge IPA is another highlight. It boasts a moderate carbonation level that lends a refreshing spritz without being overly effervescent. The body is medium, offering a satisfying and smooth texture that enhances drinkability. This balance ensures that each sip is both flavorful and refreshing.
The finish of Inside Edge IPA is clean and crisp, with a lingering bitterness that fades gracefully, leaving behind subtle echoes of citrus and pine. This aftertaste invites another sip, making it difficult to put the glass down.
Overall, Inside Edge IPA stands out in the American-style IPA category due to its well-crafted balance of flavors and aromas, complemented by its appealing mouthfeel and finish. Its combination of bright citrus notes, solid malt backbone, and refreshing finish makes it a compelling choice for both IPA aficionados and casual beer drinkers alike.