The 4 Pines black IPA double review (see my last review on the Black IPA which formed part of the Black Box of Dark Ales). While this heavily roasted style of IPA hails from north-western USA, I still think it’s appropriate I sip on a beer designed for the long trip to India as Australia eek out a lead in the Test series against India.

500ml bottle pours a deep, dark black with a frothy off white head and good strong lacing. Lovely aromas of dark chocolate malt, roasted coffee and grapefruit back notes. Chocolate sweetness leads the palate along with roasted coffee. A long acidic, bitter line works it’s way through the whole beer, showcasing the 85 IBU’s. Deliciously rich mouthfeel and thoroughly integrated 8% ABV that only lets you know it’s there towards the back half of the beer (yes, I’m a light weight).

And the winner is? The Double Cascadian quite comfortably. Delicious.

Appearance 4/5
Aroma 7/10
Flavour 8/10
Palate 4/5
Overall  15/20