In the movie, “The Adventures of Bob & Doug McKenzie: Strange Brew,” characters Bob and Doug helped to popularize the term “eh” in America. The word is basically the American equivalent of “huh" or “right." Often, it's used at the end of a sentence in the form of a question, or some people use it when they're making a statement and they're looking for verification.
Even though many Canadians do not use the word (especially British Columbians), most Americans think they do. And for some reason the word has a humorous connotation.
Thus, the next time you find yourself in B.C. -- say, in a Chilliwack liquor store -- you may find it difficult to pass up a 650-milliliter bottle (22-ounce bottle, in America) of Russell Brewing Company’s India pale ale cleverly named “IP’eh!”
But beyond the beer’s cute name, it does have a serious side. At the 2010 World Beer Cup, it received a bronze medal in the English-Style India Pale Ale category. Russell Brewing also garnered a bronze medal in the Scottish-Style Pale Ale category for its Wee Angry Scottish Ale.
“It is an honor to be recognized on the world stage at this prestigious event,” said Andrew Harris, president of Russell Breweries, Inc. “Winning twice at the World Beer Cup is a testament to the quality and hard work of our brewing team and our passion to create outstanding beer.”
IP’eh! pours with a bright copper hue and it leaves behind a lasting head. The beer’s malty nose is fresh and inviting. Its texture is full and smooth, and its carbonation is soft.
Rich malt flavors of toffee and caramel blend with a toasty, bread crust-like note in the finish.
Meanwhile, hop flavors and aromas are reminiscent of flowers and herbs, with subtle nips of pear and white grapes in the background. A balanced level of bitterness rounds things off, adding to the beer's pleasant nature and easy drinkability.
This IPA won’t smack you in the face with hops like your average Northwest IPA, but when compared to most Canadian IPAs, it does have some boldness.
Regardless, it’s a balanced English-style IPA that’s definitely worth a try, eh?
More information on IP'eh! India Pale Ale:
Brewer: Russell Brewing Company, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
International Bitterness Units (IBUs): 53
Alcohol By Volume (ABV): 6.5 percent
Web Site: www.russellbeer.ca
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