Russell Brewing recently released a specialty series and with that came their first entry into the haze craze. The East Coat IPA from Russell is described on the can as having ‘delicious juicy vibes. B.C. Beer Reviews is here today to see how this beer measures up to that statement.
B.C. Beer Reviews: Russell Brewing – East Coast IPA
Colour
As is expected with an East Coast IPA and the haze craze, this beer pours a very cloudy yellow hue from the can. When in the glass it is the textbook definition of hazy. The colour could be categorized as somewhere between orange and yellow. This could easily fall within the juicy category.
Nose/Aroma
The first note you get in the aromatics is the juicy character imparted by the yeast that is commonly used in these types of beer. As cliche as it is to say, this beer smells juicy. It falls within reasonable range of smelling like orange juice. The combination of the hops and yeast used impart a very nice juiciness. The one thing that should be said is you do not get the off aroma that can easily happen with these types of beers.
Aside from the juicy notes and fruit notes imparted by the hops there is not much to this brew. It is a straightforward and tasty smelling juicy brew.
Tasting Notes
As is the case with hazy brews, tropical and citrus fruits are at the forefront. You get strong notes of mango from this beer. Sweet tropical notes that are complimented by a light tartness that is common with a perfectly ripe mango.
Aside from the mango there is a light touch of pineapple in the background. This beer is a tropical juice bomb that comes at you with a good deal of flavour.
As is the case with the aromatics, this beer avoids the off taste that the juicy yeast can impart. Mango and pineapple notes are finished off with a smooth sweet and very lightly tart finish.
Other Notes
The branding/labeling on the can is rather sharp. Purple, maroon and pink colours make up an interesting scene that looks like a sun setting over a calm body of water. Russell Brewing hit all the right notes here.
This beer pours a fairly significant head from the can. The retention of the head is above average, sticking around long after each pour.
There is a decent amount of lacing on the glass from this brew. Light touches of lacing are spotted here and there from top to bottom.
Final Grade
This beer is tropical and juicy both in the aromatics and the tasting notes. Mango and pineapple are the most prevalent notes, especially in the aromatics. There are no noticeable off notes in either the aromatics or on your palate from the yeast. This is an overall well done brew.
Grade: 7.7/10
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Main photo by Nic Hendrickson, Lastword Inc., all rights reserved