This is the 11th beer in the Clown Shoes "The 12 Beers of Christmas" collection. Pours with a medium high, very tan frothy head. Seems to be dissipating quickly. Aroma is a unique blend of grapefruit and molasses. Color is a very deep brown but not opaque when held to the light. Texture is light and dry. Opening flavor is instantly citrus, mostly grapefruit. This is quickly followed by a deep roasted malt with mild bitterness. I would not expect these two flavors to be successfully coupled, but it seems to work. The finish transitions into a hop forward, strong bitter grapefruit. This bitterness lingers and as the other flavors dissipate and are reacquired on the next sip, the bitterness seems to layer upon each other and get stronger as you go. Haven't experienced this quality before. I have never been an IPA lover, and have only had two other black IPAs and did not particularly enjoy either one. But I did enjoy this one. Another victory for Clown Shoes Beer on their lineup of IPA beers for none IPA beer lovers.

Interesting and delicious

Has some roasted malt that has some char to it. Add some notes of cocoa and bitter coffee. Has a piney hoppy bitterness to go with it. I have to say I love black IPA’s and this one is very good. Nicely bitter with all the good attributes of a BIPA.