The label on this bottle reminds me of one of the imported German lagers you find in the imported section of the bottle shop but the contents couldn’t be farther away from one if it tried. In a glass the IPA poured a bright copper colour covered with a medium sized rocky off white coloured head, which quickly died down to an above average lace covered around 3-4 mm in height. The aroma straight out of the bottle gave away the hop load in this brew with pronounced pine, grass and floral notes predominating but after being allowed to sit a minute or two these blew to reveal the malt driven caramel and bread notes from the base.

On the palate dried fruit, apricot, caramel and biscuit notes led the way with the hops kicking in around midway across the palate. With earthy pine, citrus, floral and citrus flavours taking the spotlight. The beer itself also had a slightly foamy mouth feel which was very pleasant although in my opinion the hops seemed a little restrained for an IPA.

Score: 7.6 / 10

Verdict: The overall balance of this brew seemed a little out of whack to me, although I loved the rich malt base that shines though. Overall I thought it was an enjoyable change of pace.

Link: Lobethal Bierhaus