Today is the official kickoff of “Great Divide Brewing Co. Month” on this site and I am doing so with a review for a beer that I really enjoyed. The enjoyment part will be a pretty constant theme for the beer reviews in the coming weeks. However I will say that after writing this post from my notes that I would really like to evaluate this beer again at some point. I believe my palate has evolved over the last year and I would now better be able to put into words exactly what I experienced with this beer. The same could be said for many that I have done along the way, but my taste for IPAs has probably grown more than any other style over that time.
With that, enjoy the review, look for a possible redo in the future, and certainly give it a try sometime if you have the chance.
Brewery: Great Divide Brewing Co. (Denver, CO)
Name: Hercules Double IPA
Style: Imperial IPA
ABV: 9.1%
Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge and served in an oversized wine glass (snifter-like).
Aroma: Heavy, but very bright and sweet hop aroma. Slight fruitiness and a hint of alcohol.
Appearance: Copper color (with a hint of orange). Thick, persistent, off-white head with a heavy trail. Good clarity with tiny rising bubbles.
Flavor: Strong, but even (not harsh) hop flavors with a slight malty undertone and some dryness (astringency) at an otherwise very nice, even finish.
Mouthfeel: Medium (maybe towards light) body with good carbonation and a warming alcohol character underneath.
Overall Impressions: Well balanced (the slight maltiness and alcohol balances out with the hops) and very enjoyable. Would certainly drink again.
Grade: A-
Great Divide Brewing Co. - Hercules Double IPA
What Others Say