Sonoma County is know for its IPA. Lagunitas IPA is one of the best selling craft beers in the country and Racer 5 pushes the boundaries of what defines an IPA. Even the Imperial IPA (a stronger, hoppier and sweeter version of the IPA, sometimes referred to as Imperial) has a strong following in the area lead by Russian River's Pliny the Elder and Lagunitas' Hop Stoopid. With such strong competition in the area, it takes a bold statement to release a noteworthy IPA in these part, and Stumptown Brewery in Guerneville has done that.
Boot Legger IPA isn't a traditional IPA, nor is it an example of the West Coast IPA that dominates craft beer circles. Instead, brewery Peter Hackett chose to brew a "European" IPA for his first foray into the style at Stumptown Brewery.
Featuring European hop varieties such as Fuggles, East Kent Goldings and Super Styrians, Boot Legger IPA is an earthy brew that has a hearty flavor to it, much more substantial than the sweet, floral IPA that is popular today. Amber in color, Boot Legger is dry-hopped with Fuggles and Cascades to provide a significant hop aroma without leaning towards too much of a citrus character.
Another difference between this India Pale Ale and most is that it is not an ale at all. In fact, a lager yeast was used to produce this beer. California Common yeast, most famously used in Anchor Brewing's Steam beer, ferments at ale temperatures while producing a clean lager flavor without the need for extended cold conditioning.
The result is a 7.4% beer that will appeal to hop lovers as well as those looking for a hearty brew that will satisfy more than their thirst. Coming in at roughly 60 IBU, this beer isn't going to overpower anyone in terms of hops and bitterness, but will get the job done.
Boot Legger IPA is only available at the Stumptown Brewery on River Road just East of Guerneville. Be sure to make a visit to try this beer as once it's gone, there are no guarantees it will be back.
Stumptown Brewery
15045 River Road
Guerneville, CA 95446-8043
(707) 869-0705
Comments