★ Review: Tongue Buckler – Imperial Red Ale – Ballast Point Brewery

   AROMA 6/10   APPEARANCE 5/5   TASTE 7/10   PALATE 4/5   OVERALL 17/20

Sent to me from a west coast trader. Very generous trade full of west coast IPAs and other small breweries. Drink by 04/05/2013. Kept in the fridge for a week, poured into an ommegang glass. 

A – Deep amber to blood red appearance. Crystal clear, with no sediment. 3-Finger leathery head with a creamy composition. Gorgeous head lacing as the head dissipated to a half finger. 

S – I’m getting a nice dose of hops on the nose. There’s a nice bit of spice like cayenne or cracked pepper with some nice citrus undertones. 

T – Naturally, the hops are the dominant aspect of this red ale. Big profiles of columbus and centennial hops. Really nice brown sugar / cane syrup taste once hops cover the tongue. Very big maltiness and a very noticeable level of alcohol. 

M – 50/50carbonation on the mouth swish. Heavy body, smooth finish. 

O – Very tasty. Another great beer I’d love to have again but will have to trade for it.