Rogue Dead Guy Ale is not an IPA. It is actually a German-style Maibock, which is a strong lager. The name “Dead Guy” comes from the legend of a dead brewer who was found in a fermenting tank of this beer. Despite its name and the eerie story behind it, Dead Guy Ale is not an IPA.
However, Rogue does have an IPA in their lineup called Rogue Brutal IPA. This West-Coast style IPA is known for its hop-forward flavor profile and higher alcohol content. It is brewed with a variety of hops, including Amarillo, Centennial, Citra, and Simcoe, which contribute to its bold and citrusy character. The use of Rogue's proprietary Pacman yeast, also found in Dead Guy Ale, adds a unique twist to this IPA, giving it a crisp and clean finish.
The decision to create an IPA under the Dead Guy name was likely driven by the popularity of IPAs in the craft beer scene. IPAs have gained a huge following in recent years, with their hoppy bitterness and aromatic qualities appealing to many beer enthusiasts. By tweaking the original Dead Guy recipe to create an IPA version, Rogue aimed to capitalize on the IPA trend and offer a beer that would satisfy the cravings of hop lovers.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste many IPAs, including Rogue Brutal IPA. It is definitely a beer that lives up to the Dead Guy name. The hop flavors are bold and vibrant, with notes of citrus, pine, and floral undertones. The bitterness is well-balanced, not overpowering the palate but still leaving a pleasant hoppy aftertaste. The use of Pacman yeast gives it a clean and crisp finish, making it highly enjoyable to drink.
While Rogue Dead Guy Ale is not an IPA, Rogue does have an IPA in their lineup called Rogue Brutal IPA. This IPA is brewed with a variety of hops and Rogue's proprietary Pacman yeast, resulting in a bold and flavorful beer with a crisp finish. It is a great choice for IPA enthusiasts and those looking to explore the world of hop-forward beers.