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Hop Zealot, Twisted Pine Brewing, Boulder
Style: India Pale Ale
ABV: 6.7 percent
Serving Type: 12-ounce bottle
Malty? Hoppy? Intentionally and enthusiastically hoppy.
Reviewed: July 2014
Make way for the Hop Zealot. As opposed to the piney, citrusy, and earthy flavors typically associated with IPA, this newly-released beer (it came out in June) is a 70-IBU IPA that packs a big punch of juicy, floral hops—specifically of the Columbus, Amarillo, and Simcoe varieties, if you want to get technical. The bold hoppy flavor is well-balanced with a crisp, dry finish.
It’s actually a lot like Twisted Pine’s brand new packaging: clean and refreshing. Twisted Pine’s new beer labels were designed by the Boulder agency Anthem Branding. (The company just won the Best in 3D Design award from the Art Directors Club Denver.) Though Hop Zealot’s design is compelling, the beer is more than just pretty packaging. Since it was released this summer, it took over as Twisted’s hoppiest beer on tap. Even its neighboring suds are affected by its hoppiness—Twisted Pine is bumping its previous flagship IPA, Hoppy Boy, down to the pale ale category to make room for the Hop Zealot.
Would we buy it again? Undoubtedly, as a fridge staple.
Follow Emily Hutto on Twitter @EmilyHutto.