Lagunitas Sucks Holiday Ale

Despite the interesting name, and the even more interesting story behind the name, I've heard some very nice things about this limited offering and I'm curious to try it.  The Lagunitas Sucks Holiday Ale is classified as an American Imperial IPA according to beerAdvocate, which isn't typically my style.  But, I'll give any beer a try at least once.

The Lagunitas Sucks pours out a brilliant golden amber color, with plenty of off-white foam on top.  As the head retreats it leaves behind quite a bit of sticky lacing, generally an indication I'm getting myself into something a little too hoppy for my tastes.

The nose reveals plenty of hops, but more reserved than just the typical grapefruit variety.  There's also an interesting layer of citrus hops aromas, as well as some subtle floral hops.  The aromas keep me guessing as well, something else in there is hard for me to put my finger on.  I'm thinking its a some sort of bready or yeastiness, but I can't say for sure.

The flavors are, in no uncertain terms, incredible. The flavors follow the aromas nicely: lots of complexity in the hops, with something unique that I cannot nail down.  There's a decent amount of hop-bitterness, but it's much softer than expected.  The alcohol is fairly obvious for being only about 8% abv.  There's a nice little bit of malts in the background, but the hops still take charge and lead the way.

Of the dozen or so winter releases I've had this year, so far the Lagunitas Sucks is my favorite.  Which, quite frankly, surprises me because I've said time and time again that "I am not a hop-head." Maybe I'm slowly developing a taste for that bitterness all you IPA-lovers crave?  Nah, I doubt it.

Lagunitas Brewing Company
Lagunitas Sucks Holiday Ale
TCSH - 9/10
Aka - Delicious, I'm going to stock up!

Eli
Bibo Ergo Sum