As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and analyzing a wide variety of beers, including the Ghost beer. Ghost beer is a double India Pale Ale (IPA) that is brewed with an abundance of Citra hops from a specific farm in Yakima Valley, Washington.
When you pour Ghost beer into a glass, you'll immediately notice its vibrant golden hue. The beer has a slight haze to it, which is common for IPAs that utilize a generous amount of hops. This haze is a result of the hop oils and proteins that are suspended in the beer, giving it a slightly cloudy appearance.
As you bring the glass to your nose, you'll be greeted by a powerful and enticing aroma of grapefruit. The Citra hops used in Ghost beer impart a distinct grapefruit character, which is both pungent and inviting. This aroma is often described as being citrusy, with hints of tropical fruit notes as well.
Taking your first sip of Ghost beer, you'll immediately notice the intense hop flavor. The Citra hops dominate the palate, delivering a burst of grapefruit and tropical fruit flavors. The beer has a robust hop bitterness, but it is less harsh compared to other double IPAs. This makes Ghost beer more approachable for those who may be sensitive to strong bitterness.
The body of Ghost beer is typically medium to full, providing a solid backbone to support the hop flavors. This beer often has a dry finish, which helps to accentuate the hop bitterness and leave a lingering hop flavor on the palate.
One of the remarkable aspects of Ghost beer is its ability to balance the intense hop flavors with a certain level of drinkability. Despite its higher alcohol content, which is common for double IPAs, Ghost beer manages to remain smooth and enjoyable. This makes it a great choice for hop enthusiasts who appreciate bold flavors but still want a beer that is easy to drink.
In terms of food pairings, Ghost beer pairs well with spicy dishes, such as Thai or Indian cuisine. The hop bitterness and citrus flavors help to cut through the heat and complement the bold flavors of these dishes. It also pairs nicely with grilled seafood, particularly shrimp or scallops, as the hop flavors can enhance the natural sweetness of the seafood.
Ghost beer is a delicious and well-crafted double IPA that showcases the unique characteristics of Citra hops. Its pungent grapefruit aromas, tropical fruit flavors, and balanced bitterness make it a standout choice for IPA lovers. So, if you're looking for a hop-forward beer that pushes the boundaries of flavor, Ghost beer is definitely worth a try.