I sampled two new releases from Deschutes Brewery tonight. Turns out, it’s a pretty good way to spend a cold night in Denver. One of them, Red Chair IPA was striking in that I had tasted last year and my notes tonight were almost the same as then. And that’s a good thing. So, rather than plagiarize myself for a review, I will just quote last years’ (also found here: http://rmpeoplespalate.com/blog/?p=495):
Once in a while, this wine guy gets an opportunity to sample new craft beer releases. I’m happy to have one now to recommend: Red Chair NWPA (Northwest Pale Ale), the new seasonal beer from Deschutes Brewery of Bend, Oregon.
Deschutes says Red Chair (6.2% ABV) is named after the oldest operating lift at Mt. Bachelor. They call it their debut Northwest Pale Ale, though not unlike the last year’s Red Chair IPA. I never tasted the IPA; so, I’ll take their word for it.
This one sits in the glass with a copper color and a loosely foamy head. As I sniff, I pick up hints of citrus, bread, caramel, and herbal lemongrass. Sipping reveals more toast and citrus. Dry, bitter hops emerge but don’t overpower. A malty counterpoint asserts itself then gives way to more hops in the finish.
I relate to it as a cross between an IPA and American pale ale. It is medium bodied and well balanced, with a hoppy personality moderated by malty qualities. I’m told Red Chair began as an experimental beer to test new hops and hopping techniques. Additionally, seven European and domestic malts are key to the formula. The success of the experiment shows in the final product.
Maybe I shouldn’t be surprised Red Chair cleaned house the World Beer Awards.
I also was impressed with Deschutes Hop Henge Experimental IPA. At 10.6 percent alcohol and 95 IBUs, I think this beer (available as a 22 ounce bomber) would be classified as an Imperial IPA/Double IPA, which basically is a stronger, hoppier version of India Pale Ale. And Hop Henge is defined by intensity in both its aromas and flavors. Expect peppery, citusy hops – mostly Cascade and Centennial, with Millennium, Delta, Mosaic, and Citra – and smooth, malty, somewhat caramel flavored malts – Pale, Munich crystal, and Carastan. It drinks with a good backbone of citrus/grapefruit and finishes nicely spicy. Ultimately, this is a powerful but well balanced brew that will keep you alert while you’re drinking but will threaten to put you to a pleasant sleep soon after.