Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA is a well-known and highly-regarded beer in the craft beer world. It has gained a reputation as one of the most balanced IPAs on the market, and for good reason. This beer is brewed using a boatload of intense Northwest hops, which gives it a bold and flavorful profile that appeals to hop lovers.
One of the unique aspects of Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA is the continuous hopping process used during brewing. Unlike traditional IPAs where hops are added at specific intervals, this beer is continually hopped for a full 60 minutes. This means that hops are added throughout the entire boil, with more than 60 hop additions made during that time. This process allows for a more complex and layered hop character, resulting in a beer that is both hoppy and balanced.
The use of Northwest hops in Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA also contributes to its distinctive flavor profile. Northwest hops, such as Cascade and Centennial, are known for their citrusy and floral characteristics. These hops impart a bright and vibrant hop flavor to the beer, with notes of grapefruit, pine, and resin. The hop bitterness is present but not overpowering, allowing the other flavors to shine through.
In terms of appearance, Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA pours a clear golden color with a frothy white head. The aroma is hop-forward, with a strong citrus and pine presence. On the palate, the beer is well-balanced, with a solid malt backbone that provides a touch of sweetness to counteract the hop bitterness. The hop flavors shine through, with a pleasant and lingering hop bitterness on the finish.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate many different IPAs, and Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA stands out as one of the best. The continuous hopping process used in brewing creates a depth of flavor that is hard to find in other IPAs. The balance between the malt and hops is exceptional, allowing for a beer that is both hoppy and drinkable.
I have also found that Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA pairs well with a variety of foods. Its hop-forward profile complements spicy dishes, such as Thai or Indian cuisine, while the malt sweetness helps to balance out rich and fatty foods, such as burgers or barbecue. It also pairs nicely with cheeses, particularly those with a bit of funk or sharpness.
Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA is a classic and well-crafted beer that showcases the artistry and skill of the brewers at Dogfish Head Brewery. Its balanced and bold flavor profile, along with its versatility in food pairings, makes it a go-to choice for IPA lovers. Whether you're a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of IPAs, this beer is definitely one to try.