Crowd Control is a remarkable beer that falls into the category of an Imperial IPA, also known as a double IPA. This style of beer is known for its higher alcohol content and intense hop character. What sets Crowd Control apart is its emphasis on showcasing the unique flavors and aromas of Mosaic hops.
When you pour a glass of Crowd Control, you'll immediately notice its enticing golden color and a slight haze, which is typical for an IPA. The aroma that wafts up from the glass is simply intoxicating. It's a combination of tropical fruits, citrus, and floral notes that are characteristic of Mosaic hops. The scent is so inviting that it draws you in, making it hard to resist taking that first sip.
On the palate, Crowd Control offers a perfect balance between the malt backbone and the hoppy bitterness. The malt provides a solid foundation, adding a touch of sweetness and a slightly caramel-like flavor. This helps to offset the intense hop bitterness and create a harmonious overall taste. The beer has a medium to full body, which adds to its smooth and satisfying mouthfeel.
What sets Mosaic hops apart is their unique flavor profile. They bring forth a range of fruity and tropical notes, such as mango, pineapple, and passion fruit. These flavors shine through in Crowd Control, giving it a juicy and refreshing character. Additionally, Mosaic hops also impart a resinous and sticky quality to the beer, which adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor.
The use of dry hopping in Crowd Control further enhances the hop aroma and flavor. Dry hopping is a technique where hops are added to the beer during fermentation or after primary fermentation is complete. This allows the hops to infuse their oils and aromatics into the beer without adding additional bitterness. In the case of Crowd Control, the dry hopping amplifies the already vibrant hop character, creating an explosion of tropical and citrus flavors.
One of the things I love about Crowd Control is its versatility. While it is undoubtedly a hop-forward beer, it still maintains a sense of balance. The malt backbone provides just enough sweetness to complement the hop bitterness without overpowering the overall flavor. This makes it a fantastic beer to enjoy on its own or pair with a variety of foods.
I remember enjoying a pint of Crowd Control with a plate of spicy buffalo wings at a local pub. The combination was fantastic as the hop bitterness helped to cut through the heat of the wings while the fruity hop flavors complemented the spicy flavors of the sauce. It was a perfect example of how the beer's flavor profile can enhance and elevate the dining experience.
Crowd Control is a delicious and well-crafted Imperial IPA that showcases the wonderful flavors and aromas of Mosaic hops. Its golden color, tropical fruit aromas, and sticky hop overlay create an enticing beer that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, Crowd Control is sure to please any hop lover. So go ahead, grab a pint, and let the crowd control your taste buds.