Name: Last Five
Brewer: Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits (Philippines)
Style: American IPA
ABV: 7.5%
Review Year: 2021
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits is back with the revamped version of their American IPA, Last Five.
STYLE GUIDELINES
This beer is being evaluated as an American IPA (21A) in the context of the 2015 Beer Style Guidelines of the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP). The most current version of the guidelines can be found on the BJCP website.
TASTING NOTES
Clear deep gold with slight haziness; medium head with excellent retention. Soft orange pith and fruit tea aromas were initially noted. As the beer warmed, these aromas were up to medium with additional hints of caramel and biscuit. Medium-bodied and carbonation. Moderately high fruity flavors were noted (think of orange pith, wild cherry, and pomegranate) and were supported by a medium-low caramel malt backbone with a biscuity hint. Bitterness was medium, while residual sweetness was low. A subtle yeasty/bready aftertaste lingered alongside orange pith and lemon zest.
THE VERDICT
This revamped version of Last Five is a dry, moderately bitter IPA that showcased fruity hops as well as biscuity, caramel-like malt qualities. The moderate bitterness allowed this American IPA to be very palatable for both casual and seasoned drinkers alike. For some, this could almost be like an India Pale Lager because it is hop-forward, refreshing, and very drinkable.
Mouthfeel and body felt appropriate. Light caramel or toasty flavors are acceptable for the style, but we think the biscuity (appropriate for an English IPA) and yeasty impressions could still be toned down while the aroma could still be more intense. Overall, very good. Enjoy not too cold.
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Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
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