I recently participated in a massive beer tasting for 5280’s upcoming fall beer guide. While I’m lucky enough to try quite a few beers during the year for this blog, putting them into a lineup with their peers can cast the brews in a different light.

No categories were as revealing as the pale ales and IPAs, which have a stunning range of flavors. One that distinguished itself for me was Left Hand Brewing Company’s brand-new release: 400 Pound Monkey IPA.

This subtle, English-style IPA has a dark honey color. The nose has some citrus notes but not the typical, overwhelming grassy or floral aromas. And, in keeping with the English-style tradition, it’s a well-balanced beer that doesn’t bowl you over with its hops—something that certainly stands out in Colorado’s hop-head culture.