HI.P.A. from Magic Hat

Been awhile but this one is special.  Magic Hat says this is a limited edition IPA that they're demoing as a creative outlet for themselves. 

Look, Pour, Smell - Hazy orange, persistent but short head;  hops own the smell.

Taste - Unique hop flavor...the hops are first and and malt second which is super unique.  It's nice that the bitter hops fade for a sweet, buttery malt.

Rating - 8
This one is unique, and you won't be disappointed...if you can find it.

Magic Hat Blind Faith IPA

This was another grab while I was at my favorite store.  Hoping this is as impressive as the others from Magic Hat.  Picture to come when my phone cooperates.  Anyone notice it's in "das boot."

Look/Pour/Taste - Amber color, light carbonation from head, caramel smell like a warm toffee.

Taste - Crisp hops, like a cool forest.  Cool malt is in the background.  This is a true IPA.

Rating - 7
Although this one is a leader in what an IPA should taste like, I don't think it can hold it's own against other IPAs.  IPA is the fullest field, and it is a good IPA.  Make it like this every time and you'll have a great beer to follow.  It should be what all IPAs should strive to be.

Magic Hat Odd Notion Series Summer '10

So this was a whim buy, I actually didn't even look at the name or anything, just the brand and I grabbed it.  Great luck, since this is a special brew and won't come around again.  Says it's brewed 3/4 ale w/ ginger.


Look/Pour/Smell - Yellow orange, hazy.  You can smell ginger no problem.  The pours easy, light carbonation.

Taste - The ginger is amazing.  The malt is browned, and so it helps to manage the strong ginger taste.  It's a really deep taste.  Honey and brown sugar are other thoughts that come to mind.

Rating - 8
It's so unique I can't help but give it a great rating.  It's only my fortune to buy this, so I hope you don't miss it.