Blacks Black IPA

◎ Appearance

Deep garnet to near-black in the glass, presenting the dark presentation of a stout while maintaining translucent edges when held to light. The head is modest and tan-coloured, settling to a thin collar with restrained lacing. Carbonation is notably subdued, creating a still, contemplative visual presence.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with bright citrus and resinous pine from Centennial and Citra, layered with berry undertones from Vic Secret. As the glass warms, roasted malt emerges—coffee grounds and cocoa powder—with a subtle liquorice thread running through the mid-palate aromatics. The balance tilts toward hop character rather than malt darkness.

◐ Taste

Entry is clean and dry, with bright citrus and pine bitterness establishing themselves immediately before cocoa and coffee notes from the roasted malt foundation settle in. The mid-palate develops a creamy texture that softens the 60 IBU without obscuring it; liquorice appears as a gentle counterpoint to the malt's earthiness. Bitterness remains present but refined, never harsh.

◑ Finish

The finish is crisp and dry, with lingering bitterness and a faint coffee-cocoa fade that sustains for several seconds. No sweetness intrudes; the aftertaste remains firmly in hop and roasted territory.