Get excited and get spacey because this week, we are joined by our faithful friend from the freakiest coast. I’m talking about Best Day Brewing, a brewery that popped up out of nowhere one day with three kick-ass brews and has returned with a new galactic treat. I want to mention that I believe I previously credited Best Day Brewing to Waunakee, Wisconsin, but in truth, it seems they only distribute through the Midwest and actually find themselves firmly planted in California. That’s probably why their hops are so damn dank and fresh.
Galaxy Ripple Imperial IPA from Best Day Brewing
We are drinking Galaxy Ripple Imperial IPA from Best Day Brewing this week. I was initially confused because I always credited the ‘imperial’ part of Imperial IPAs to their alcohol content, but alas, it would appear that I was wrong. Much like many other things, or so my wife tells me. Either way, in a perfect world with an imperial IPA, I expect that classic copper color and a strong, strong hop presence in aroma and flavor.
How Does It Smell?
When we first crack the can, the dank does not disappoint. Hops begin to waif through the air and are met quickly with anticipation as the beer pours into the glass, creating near-perfect colorization, consistency, and head. The copper color is rarely so perfect in an NA beer, and my excitement is already felt through the roof. There is a slight hint of citrus in the aroma, but for the most part, it is a hop explosion that I would happily make a Glade PlugIn out of. Do they do that?
How Does It Taste?
When I finally bring the Best Day Brewing beer to my Best Taste Flowing lips, I am pumped to experience the pinnacle of IPAs. The heavy mouthfeel only holds the hoppiness in my mouth longer, and the flavors of hops rest on every inch of my tongue and linger in the back of my throat. Reminiscent of high-octane beers like Bell’s Two-Hearted, Galaxy Ripple hits the nail on the head and is a welcome addition to the overstuffed seas of IPAs in the NA world.
Untappd gives Galaxy Ripple Imperial IPA by Best Day Brewing a 3.7 out of 5. I’m actually pinning it a bit higher at 4.5, and I will say, as far as IPAs go, I think this one may dethrone the previous double IPA from Athletic Brewing. Best Day Brewing is the Best IPA Brewing in my book. Go check it out for yourself, and remember to button your pants when you get up.
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