The 120 Minute IPA is a truly exceptional beer that pushes the boundaries of what an IPA can be. It is an incredibly strong and bold beer, with an ABV (alcohol by volume) that varies between 15% and 20%. This high alcohol content gives it a powerful and intense flavor profile that is not for the faint of heart.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of trying the 120 Minute IPA on multiple occasions, and each time it has left a lasting impression. The first thing that strikes you is the deep amber color, which hints at the rich and complex flavors that lie within.
When you take a sip, you are immediately greeted with a burst of hoppy bitterness that is characteristic of an IPA. However, what sets the 120 Minute IPA apart is the incredible depth and complexity of the hop flavors. This is due in part to the continuous hopping process during the two-hour boil and the daily dry-hopping in the fermenter for a month.
The use of high-alpha American hops ensures that the beer is packed with intense hop aromas and flavors. These hops impart citrusy, piney, and floral notes that dance on your palate with each sip. The beer is also aged for an additional month on whole-leaf hops, which further enhances the hop character and adds a subtle earthiness to the beer.
One of the things that I find fascinating about the 120 Minute IPA is how it evolves over time. The aging process allows the flavors to mellow and blend together, resulting in a beer that is incredibly smooth and well-rounded despite its high alcohol content. As the beer warms up, new layers of complexity are revealed, making each sip a unique and enjoyable experience.
I must admit that the 120 Minute IPA is not for everyone. Its high alcohol content can be overwhelming, and the intense hop flavors may be too much for those who prefer a more balanced beer. However, for those who appreciate bold and powerful brews, it is an absolute delight.
The 120 Minute IPA is a beer that pushes the boundaries of what an IPA can be. With its colossal 45-degree plato, two-hour boil, continuous hopping, and extended aging on whole-leaf hops, it is a beer that is not afraid to be bold and intense. Its ABV varies between 15% and 20%, making it one of the strongest IPAs on the market. So, if you're looking for a beer that will challenge your taste buds and leave a lasting impression, give the 120 Minute IPA a try. Just be sure to approach it with an open mind and a sense of adventure.