Terrapin Beer Co. – Capt’n Krunkles

There is a bit of a personal obsession developing with Black IPAs.  Since being taken with the Iniquity at the Florida Brewers Guild Beerfest some months ago I have been on the lookout for more examples of that (unofficial) style to get my fix.  So as I was picking up a bottle of Southern Tier Iniquity at Big C a little while back, I immediate listened to Ian’s (who is currently without an official nickname) suggestion to pick up this Terrapin offering.  I am very glad I did.

One minor hesitation with this one for me was the gold foil wrapper on the cap that so often is a pain to get off cleanly before opening the bottle.  There was no issue with this one as there was no adhesive holding it on.  Kudos to them for that.  Lastly I should mention that The Wife enjoyed the flavors initially, but it was too bitter for her to enjoy in the end.  IPAs are generally not her thing and in this case that meant more for me!

On we go . . .

Brewery: Terrapin Beer Co. (Athens, GA)

Name: Capt’n Krunkles (Side Project Volume 10)

Style: American (Black) IPA

ABV: 7.5%

Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge and served in a pint glass.

Aroma: Nice citrusy (somewhat floral) hoppiness offset with roasted malty notes.  An enjoyable overall aroma with some warmth(?) present as well.

Appearance: Black/incredibly deep, dark brown (of course).  Two finger, light brown head that is thick and frothy with nice retention and a big laced trail.  Opaque and barely able to see through the edges when held to light.

Flavor: Some citrus hop flavor up front (not too much) that balances really nicely with roasted malty, lightly chocolately flavors.  The hop bitterness starts up front as well and combines with the roasted malt bitterness through to a finish that has some dryness and that lingers a bit.

Mouthfeel: Full body with moderate to high carbonation.  Smooth and creamy on palate.

Overall Impressions: Big in overall flavor, with a good balance between the hop and malt components.  It opens up nicely as it warms a bit.  To me it tastes as if a good stout was mixed with a nice IPA and I like to addition of the roasted notes to the hoppiness.

Grade: A-

Terrapin Beer Co. - Capt'n Krunkles

A closer look at The Capt'n