March Pub51 IPA evaluation submission

I'm not really an IPA guy but......it said 'Imperial IPA' (that's good, right?)
1. I trust Red Hook. Saw it's now produced in Portland OR, where I'm visitin.
1a. Always buy Local.
2. Bottle size was good = 22oz.
3. The "Big Ballard" name caught my eye.
4. 8.6% by volume closed the deal.

Even with the heightened alcohol level it maintained a lightness with a bit of a bitter finish - hoppy (i guess) - and a bit of a kick, the 8.6 was more than subtlety present.

I had pulled it from the frig and the temp (imho) was too cold. Seemed to killz any flavor and accentuate the hoppy after. So, being a patient guy - sip along and see how it changes as it warms. And low&behold after drinking most of the bottle, time&consumption were adding to the enjoyment. But still too hoppy for me, although the bottle description listed 'crisp finish'.

Ya Sure, Ya Betcha