Harpoon IPA

Harpoon has been around for a long time - since 1986 - well before I was old enough to legally imbibe.

They are one of the early breweries that  paved the road for other micro brewers during craft beer insurgence of the 1980's and 90's.

Harpoon was inspired by the lack of high quality, flavorful beers available during a time when macro-breweries like Budweiser, Coors and Pabst ruled the market with their bland, same-same brew.

Harpoon introduced their IPA and it continues to be their number one selling beer.

Harpoon IPA (5.90% ABV) pours a pale golden color with a bright fluffy head with good retention.  The complexion in the glass deepens to a clear amber.

The aroma is a mellow combination of citrus and pine.

The taste is initially bitter but the malty backbone takes the edge off quite nicely.  The hops present a burst of grapefuit and a hint of pine. The finish is mildly bitter and dry.

The mouthfeel is medium with loads of carbonation.

Harpoon IPA is a good middle of the road beer.  It's a good solid IPA, not too bitter and nothing fancy.  Pretty much a good for anyone brew, especially someone dipping their toe into the river of IPA's out there.

Overall: very good