The Twisted Hop Goggles DIPA

I have a great deal of affection for this brewery and its beer. I have seen ome successes and some failures occur, happy times at the bar, deep and lasting friendships and I even met my fiancee while presenting a pub quiz. After the rigours of the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake, I am delighted to present a new (limited) edition from the brewery that begins the phoenix from the flames rise of the Hop: Goggles is a rehash of the classic Golding with Fuggles (hence Goggles) and a weighty 8.5% abv. Taken from handpull at the new Twisted Hop in Woolston, Christchurch. It appeared an oddish hazy russet colour with a collar of tight cream coloured head. Aromas of rich orchard and stonefruit with spices - garam masala, cinnamon and mace. This was apparent in the flavour which was bog and lush at first and then gave a blast of woody bitterness. There was effervescent carbonation in the form of a cascade of small bubbles in the mouth which, along with the bitterness, gave a lasting finish and a thirst for more. This beer is a bit of a big bastard, but charming with it and would be dangerously addictive.