Heady Topper is an exceptional example of a double India Pale Ale (IPA). As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze a wide variety of IPAs, and Heady Topper stands out among the rest. It is brewed by The Alchemist, a renowned brewery located in Waterbury, Vermont, known for their dedication to producing top-quality craft beers.
One notable characteristic of Heady Topper is its high alcohol content, coming in at a robust 8% ABV. This higher alcohol content gives the beer a bit more body and complexity, creating a fuller and more robust flavor profile. It also contributes to the overall “headiness” of the beer, providing a stronger and more intense experience.
Heady Topper is unfiltered, meaning that it retains all of its natural flavors and aromas without any additional processing. This unfiltered nature gives the beer a slightly hazy appearance, which is not uncommon for IPAs. It also adds to the overall mouthfeel and texture, making it feel more substantial and satisfying.
In terms of flavor, Heady Topper bursts with a multitude of delicious notes. The Alchemist describes it as having flavors of orange, tropical fruit, pink grapefruit, pine, and spice. These flavors combine to create a complex and well-balanced taste experience. The citrusy notes of orange and grapefruit provide a refreshing and zesty quality, while the tropical fruit flavors add a touch of sweetness and complexity. The pine notes contribute to the beer's hoppy character, providing a pleasant bitterness that is typical of IPAs. the spice undertones add a subtle yet intriguing element that adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
One aspect that truly sets Heady Topper apart is its aroma. When you first bring the glass to your nose, you are greeted with an explosion of enticing scents. The tropical fruits, citrus, and pine all come together to create a wonderfully fragrant experience. It's like taking a deep breath of a tropical paradise, with hints of pine forests lingering in the background. This aromatic complexity adds another layer of enjoyment to the beer, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Having had the pleasure of enjoying Heady Topper on multiple occasions, I can attest to its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. It is a beer that demands your attention and invites you to savor every sip. The flavors and aromas evolve as the beer warms up, offering new nuances and surprises with each sip. It truly is a beer that rewards exploration and appreciation.
Heady Topper is an outstanding example of a double IPA. Its high alcohol content, unfiltered nature, and complex flavor profile make it a standout beer in the world of IPAs. Whether you're a seasoned IPA lover or someone looking to explore the style for the first time, Heady Topper is a beer that is sure to impress and leave a lasting impression.