Setting Sun

◎ Appearance

Setting Sun presents a hazy, golden-amber appearance characteristic of New England IPA style, with suspended particulates creating a soft, diffused look. The head is generous and cream-colored, settling into a light collar with moderate retention. Carbonation appears moderate, producing a fine, pillowy texture in the glass.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with bright tropical stone fruit—lychee and ripe apricot—layered beneath a distinct watermelon note that adds juicy freshness. Underlying this fruit-forward profile sits a soft, grainy Malz character from the oat and wheat bill, allowing the El Dorado, Citra, and BRU-1 hops to remain expressive without sharp resinous edges. A subtle herbal undertone rounds the bouquet.

◐ Taste

The palate opens with a juicy, almost nectar-like sweetness from lychee, apricot, and ripe pineapple, the oat and wheat providing a creamy, pillowy mouthfeel that softens the beer's 8% alcohol. Bitterness integrates smoothly at 80 IBU, building gradually into the mid-palate without sharp edges or astringency, maintaining the fruit-forward character throughout. The finish remains clean and quenching, the hop bitterness receding gracefully.

◑ Finish

The finish is medium in length, fading smoothly from the fruit-driven mid-palate into a subtle dry mineral note with lingering tropical sweetness. Alcohol warmth is barely perceptible, lending to the beer's drinkability despite its strength.