Bubble Stash IPA is a delightful and approachable IPA that is brewed by Hop Valley Brewing Co. Originally based in Eugene, Oregon, this brewery has gained quite a reputation for creating exceptional craft beers. However, it's important to note that Bubble Stash IPA is now brewed under license by the talented folks at Creemore Springs.
But what sets Bubble Stash IPA apart from other IPAs is its unique flavor profile. Unlike some IPAs that can be overly bitter, Bubble Stash offers a more balanced and less aggressive hop character. This makes it a great option for those who may not typically enjoy the intense bitterness that can sometimes be associated with IPAs.
I had the pleasure of trying Bubble Stash IPA during a recent visit to a local craft beer festival. As a sommelier and brewer, I'm always on the lookout for interesting and well-crafted beers, and Bubble Stash certainly caught my attention.
Upon pouring, the beer had a beautiful golden color with a slight haze, indicating that it was unfiltered. The aromas were incredibly inviting, with notes of tropical fruits such as mango and pineapple, along with hints of citrus. It was a refreshing change from the more typical piney and resinous aromas found in many IPAs.
Taking my first sip, I was pleasantly surprised by the smoothness of the beer. The malt backbone provided a nice balance to the hop bitterness, resulting in a beer that was enjoyable to drink from start to finish. The hop flavors were present but not overpowering, allowing the fruity and citrus notes to shine through.
One aspect that I particularly appreciated about Bubble Stash IPA was its drinkability. Sometimes IPAs can be quite heavy and filling, but Bubble Stash had a lighter body that made it incredibly easy to enjoy. This made it a perfect choice for a warm summer day, where a heavy beer might have been too much.
While traditionally brewed by Hop Valley Brewing Co, the fact that Bubble Stash IPA is now brewed under license by Creemore Springs is not necessarily a negative. In fact, it could bring a new level of expertise and attention to detail to the brewing process. Creemore Springs has a strong reputation for their commitment to quality, so it's likely that they have put their own touch on this beer while staying true to the original recipe.
Bubble Stash IPA is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to explore the world of IPAs without being overwhelmed by bitterness. Its balanced hop character, tropical fruit notes, and approachable flavor profile make it a standout beer in the IPA category. Whether you're a seasoned IPA enthusiast or new to the style, Bubble Stash IPA is definitely worth a try.