Bell's Hopslam Ale Beer Review!

Bell's Hopslam Beer Review
This very hard to find Double IPA by Bell's Brewery is a seasonal release in the winter.   It is a very hard beer to get your hands on and one of the highest rated Double IPA's out there.  One of my good friends surprised me with a six pack the other day.

Here's some general info taken from the Bell's Brewery website about 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 repetoire. 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."

Stats: Alcohol by Volume  10%
         Original Gravity  1.087
      

Tasting Notes

Appearance:  Pours a Golden Orangish color with a creamy head.  Great head retention that sticks around for awhile.

Smell:  Wonderful hop aroma!  Grapefruity, citrusy aroma is dominant.  Can smell the honey a bit too, and a bit of the floral hops.  My senses are tickled!
 
Taste:  Couldn't wait to taste this one.  Probably drank way too quick.  Taste is sweet, hoppy, citrusy goodness.  Very well balanced.  You can't tell this one is 10% alcohol.   Flavors are very multi dimensional.  Can taste the grapefruit hops, honey sweetness, and floral undertones.   Very complex.  Very enjoyable!

Mouthfeel:  Slightly thick, like how it lingers on the tongue.  Perfect amount of carbonation for the style.

Overall:  One of my favorite beers I've had so far.  Only had Pliney The Elder once, but I think it's on the same level.  Would love to do a side by side tasting with the two.   This hop bomb of a beer is delicious, hoppy, yet not too bitter.  Flavors are wonderfully complex and tickle the tongue.  Can't wait to crack another!

Grade: A

Serving Type: 12 oz Bottle

Posted in: Beer Reviews