There has never been a reason for me to take pictures of a beer that I have already done a review for.  Then again there has never been a reason for me to take pictures of beer at all, but I am too far gone on that one.  Since I tend not to know that I am missing a picture for a beer until I go to type up the evaluation, maybe it makes sense for me snap photos of beers that travel through the house for a second time (or third or fourth or fifth time)?

There really is not a better name for this beer.  It is overflowing with hoppiness in the aroma and flavor though somehow is not overwhelming to the palate.  With the beer being as good as it is the price should really vault it a full letter grade on my scale (which would put it off the scale completely).  I often tell others that Lagunitas beers are among (if not) the best value out there and this is a prime example.

Brewery: Lagunitas Brewing Co. (Petaluma, CA)

Name: Hop Stoopid Ale

Style: Imperial IPA

ABV: 8.0%

Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge and served in an oversized wine glass/snifter.  $3.99 for 22oz.

Aroma: Intense, fruity hop aroma (that seemingly has notes of pineapple/mango/apricot) with a slightly sweet malty background.

Appearance: Light amber color with some orange tint.  Slight (not much) off-white head that slowly dissipates with no trail.  Very clear with some rising bubbles visible.

Flavor: Prominent hop flavor that is much the same as the aroma, though not as strong as it implies.  There is some slight bitterness and a low level of maltiness in the background that helps to create a well balanced overall flavor.  Some slight dryness at the finish though not lingering.

Mouthfeel: Medium body with a moderate amount of carbonation.  Very smooth on the palate with a very slight warmth noticeable. 

Overall Impressions: Absolutely tremendous, intoxicating hop aroma.  Very hoppy, but not at all harsh with the hoppiness in good balance with the overall.  Very clean and easy drinking for a big IPA.

Grade: A (or better)

No picture, but now is about the time you should be grabbing your keys to go find a bottle of this one!

  3 Responses to “Lagunitas Brewing Co. – Hop Stoopid Ale”

  1. I am the worst at taking pictures. Now I have resorted to just using my camera phone- awful quality pics, but they get the point across

    • I am getting better at it, but have a long way to go. I do get a few pictures on my phone now and again, but I always seem to forget they are there until after I needed them. At least I don’t forget to enjoy the beer though!

  2. this is by far the BEST beer! i love hoppy beer but this one is the best!

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