Hoptimist

◎ Appearance

Hoptimist presents a golden-amber body with bright clarity and a fine, persistent white head that clings to the glass in delicate lace as you drink. The color sits at the lighter end of the spectrum for a Double IPA, suggesting restrained crystal malt in the grist. Carbonation is lively and well-integrated, rising in steady streams.

◌ Aroma

The nose is dominated by fresh hop character: Cascade and Citra deliver bright citrus and herbal notes, while Chinook and Waimea add earthy, piney depth and subtle resinous pine tar undertones. A light caramel malt base provides soft sweetness underneath, grounding the aggressive hop profile without competing. There is no yeast-derived character; the hops remain the clear focus.

◐ Taste

Entry is clean and crisp, with immediate hop bitterness and citrus intensity settling onto the mid-palate. The beer sustains a bold, drying bitterness throughout (80 IBU), backed by subtle stone fruit and grapefruit notes from the Citra, while Cascade and Waimea contribute pine resin and spice. Malt sweetness remains carefully controlled, allowing the bitter, herbal character to dominate without harshness.

◑ Finish

The finish is long and drying, with lingering bitterness and piney resin notes that fade gradually over several minutes. No cloying sweetness persists; the aftertaste remains clean and hop-forward.