Bell's Brewery (Galesburg, Michigan) has already begun its release of their wildly popular Hopslam Ale, and Alabama craft beer lovers can expect to see this brew in state by the end of January.
Hopslam is a winter seasonal from Bell's, and it is easily one of the brewery's most eagerly anticipated releases each year. This Double India Pale Ale (DIPA) is brewed with six different hops, making it probably the most aggressively hopped beer in the Bell's portfolio. Although this brew provides a hoppy punch to the teeth, balance is achieved through a fair amount of malt and the addition of honey to cut the bitterness with just the right amount of sweetness. The final product is a DIPA that weighs in at a sizable 10% ABV, but it somehow remains incredibly drinkable despite that fact. The brewery claims that Hopslam has a shelf/cellar life of six months, but I suggest that fresher is better so you can fully appreciate all the hoppy goodness this beer has to offer. For a more detailed description, here are the brewery's notes on Hopslam:
Starting with six different hop varietals added to the brew kettle & culminating with a massive dry-hop addition of Simcoe hops, Bell's Hopslam Ale possesses the most complex hopping schedule in the Bell's repertoire. Selected specifically because of their aromatic qualities, these Pacific Northwest varieties contribute a pungent blend of grapefruit, stone fruit, and floral notes. A generous malt bill and a solid dollop of honey provide just enough body to keep the balance in check, resulting in a remarkably drinkable rendition of the Double India Pale Ale style.
Hopslam shipped earlier this week to select areas of the Midwest, but Southern hop-heads will have to be a bit more patient. Alabama should receive its shipment of kegs and 12 oz. bottles of Hopslam by Monday, January 21, and it will hit taps and shelves shortly thereafter. Bell's reports that they were able to make more Hopslam this year, but it will still be very limited. For you to have a chance at this tasty DIPA, I would keep an eye out at Alabama's more craft beer friendly bars, restaurants, and retailers. Just know that once this beer is gone, it is gone until next year's release.
If you are a fan of hoppy beers at all, I highly recommend you track down some Bell's Hopslam to take up residence in your fridge later this month. DIPAs just do not get much better than this one. Good luck and happy hunting out there. If you wish to spread your good fortune after you secure your stash of Hopslam, please feel free to post where and when you picked it up in the comments area below. Prost!
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