Smuling IPA

◎ Appearance

Copper-colored body with bright clarity and fine carbonation visible throughout. A dense, cream-colored head forms on the pour and clings to the glass with persistent lacing. The clean, translucent appearance belies the aggressive hop character to come.

◌ Aroma

The nose is dominated by pungent pine and woody forest floor notes from the Pacific Northwest C-hops, backed by resinous, almost medicinal depth. Subtle citrus and tropical top notes emerge with air, but remain secondary to the earthy, herbal character. Malt contributes a light, clean backbone without sweetness.

◐ Taste

Entry is assertively bitter with strong pine and wood-derived tannins dominating the mid-palate. Citrus and tropical fruit notes provide brief relief before the resinous, earthy bitterness reasserts itself. The 71 IBU are well-integrated rather than harsh; the clean malt body at 6.5% ABV prevents any cloying sweetness and allows the hop profile to develop fully.

◑ Finish

Bitterness persists into a medium-length finish with lingering woody and herbal notes. The clean, dry aftertaste leaves a mineral, slightly astringent impression that invites another sip.