Thirsty Dog's Blood Hound Orange IPA is indeed an IPA, but with a unique twist. It is infused with blood oranges, which adds a vibrant and refreshing fruit flavor to the traditional IPA profile. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze a wide variety of beers, and the Blood Hound Orange IPA stands out for its innovative combination of flavors.
The use of blood oranges in this IPA brings a distinct citrusy and tangy element to the beer. The natural sweetness of the blood oranges complements the bitterness of the hops, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This infusion of fruit adds a layer of complexity to the beer, making it a truly unique and enjoyable experience.
In terms of the hop profile, Thirsty Dog has chosen to use Azacca and Centennial hops in the Blood Hound Orange IPA. Azacca hops are known for their tropical fruit flavors, including notes of mango, pineapple, and citrus. These flavors work in harmony with the blood orange infusion, enhancing the overall fruitiness of the beer. Centennial hops, on the other hand, bring a floral and slightly spicy character to the beer, adding depth and complexity to the hop profile.
The combination of blood oranges and the chosen hop varieties creates a refreshing and fruit-forward sensation in the Blood Hound Orange IPA. The citrusy notes from both the blood oranges and the Azacca hops are prominent, giving the beer a zesty and bright character. This makes it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a refreshing and flavorful IPA with a twist.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of enjoying a glass of the Blood Hound Orange IPA on a warm summer evening. The aroma alone was enough to entice me, with the scent of ripe blood oranges and tropical fruits wafting from the glass. The first sip revealed a burst of citrus flavors, with the blood oranges shining through and complementing the hop bitterness. The carbonation was lively, adding to the overall refreshing nature of the beer.
Thirsty Dog's Blood Hound Orange IPA is a unique and flavorful IPA that successfully combines the refreshing qualities of blood oranges with the hop bitterness and complexity of an IPA. Whether you're a fan of IPAs or looking to explore new and innovative beer flavors, this beer is definitely worth a try. Its vibrant fruit flavors and refreshing sensation make it a delightful choice for any beer enthusiast.