Delicious Double IPA - Stone Brewing Review
If you’re struggling to splurge on something new it’s best to start with the tried and true. That’s what I always tell myself. But part of running this blog is to give honest reviews of beers so you know what you’re getting into, even if it is from a tried and true brewer.
And that brings us to Stone Brewing’s Delicious Double IPA. Their original Delicious IPA is a gluten-reduced beer that was first released in 2015. But, knowing Stone’s reputation for taking things to the limit, they couldn’t stop there, so they released their Delicious DIPA at the end of 2022 with the same gluten-reduced model.
It has a powerful 9.4% ABV and is filled to the brim in usual Stone fashion with Amarillo, Centennial, and El Dorado hops. According to Stone.com, they brew this decadent drink with barley and then use an enzyme called Clarex to break down the gluten to below FDA approved standards. Of course, since it is originally brewed with barley, they aren’t able to label it gluten-free, but they assure us it’s pretty darn close.
And while we appreciate the extra effort, the aroma and flavor still come first. Stone says it exhibits aromas of strawberry shortcake, sweet lemon, honey, and cherry skin, and is rounded out with flavors of candied orange, Meyer lemon, caramel, ripe red apples, and red and black licorice.
Now, that’s bringing some diversity. Let’s see what we can pick out in our firsts.
First Impressions:
On the Eyes--A cream-colored head tops the rich gold elixir filled with tingling bubbles.
On the Nose--Floral and citrus right up front, and they are followed by the unexpected strawberry shortcake sweetness to balance it out. It smells rich but approachable for a DIPA. I expected an impactful aroma and Stone delivered.
On the Palate--Heavy citrus notes. Certainly orange with lemon zest sharpness. The caramel balances the zingy citrus along with some true apple flavors. The black licorice appears as just a touch on the end, though I personally miss the red licorice. I don’t enjoy black licorice much, but it is a nice addition in this beer. It is very smooth for a DIPA, with a medium body, and it’s quite gentle on the bitterness, which is not common for Stone but awesome for this beer. The ABV stings just the right amount but isn’t overbearing. Very interesting and eclectic beer.
As expected from one of America’s craft brewing greats, this DIPA is well thought out, well balanced, and really fun to drink. Even as a gluten-reduced beer it could hold its own against any Double IPA. I highly recommend it for those who are gluten-sensitive but not alcohol-sensitive. And try Stone’s other Delicious offerings as well.
Cheers!
Mr. Brew