inspector tony - single hop west coast ipa

Many brewmasters are fans of contrasts. They are drawn to both poles and enjoy venturing into one extreme or the other. This tendency is reflected, for example, in the amount of hops on the ingredient list: while some brews are made with five or more varieties of the green gold, others contain only a single one. The latter beers fall into the so-called single-hop category. Neither approach is easy. Those who juggle large quantities of hops must keep a close eye on the bitterness and the bite of the cones. And with a single variety, it's crucial to bring out its full range of nuances so that the brew doesn't become one-dimensional or boring.

The brewmasters (and chefs) behind Two Chefs Brewing have already mastered both areas with flying colors. Their dry-hopped IPAs with generous hop grist are densely woven masterpieces, as are their single-hop examples. Inspector Tony falls into the latter category and is a West Coast IPA that puts Simcoe front and center.

This modern, American-inspired creation arrives in an almost clear amber gold color, crowned with a rich, creamy, densely pored foam. From the ivory-colored head rises an enticing aroma of citrus and pine resin. Simcoe presents the flavor profile in perfect splendor: a spicy, pine-fresh breeze meets sun-ripened citrus fruits, a crisp bitterness, and a smooth malt base. Exquisite!