BrewDog Libertnie Black Ale

Black IPA, that's the official style of Libertine Black Ale, however, it is rather a controversial style. First of all, it is the name. Black IPA means Black India Pale Ale which is an oxymoron. Beer cannot be Black and Pale at the same time. There is an alternative name - Black Ale but it is not correct either because it does not indicate, a significant amount of hops, used for brewing. Finally, there is last and probably the most correct name of - Cascadian Dark Ale, which comes from the Cascade Range in North America, close to which, the majority of American hops are farmed. This name seems to describe this beer style best. Another controversy is related to the style itself and an idea for the beer that if executed properly, results with a great drink. Cascadian Dark Ale is a merger between a dark mellow stout and a bitter hoppy IPA, therefore it creates a drinkable beer which has very delicate texture and refreshing hoppy bitterness.

Liberty Black Ale Appeared in 2012, but since then, the recipe has slightly changed. Originally it consisted of Maris Otter, Caramalt, Munich Malt, Dark Crystal Malt, Carafa malts and Simcoe hops. Alcohol content was 7.2% and IBU was 65. Later on, only malts have changed to Cara, Carafa, Crystal and Extra Pale. Alcohol content stayed the same but IBU increased by 5 points to 70. Liberty Black Ale is clear and black with brown glitter. Head is white and has good lacing which is visible in the picture. Aroma is made of heavy malt, caramel and chocolate notes that is balanced by citrusy sweet and piny hop notes. Taste is also well balanced. Moderately sweet and bitter, rather long lasting. The beer has very pleasurable texture and is rather full bodied. I am not a big fan of this style but I rate this beer high at 3.5/5 and will definitely drink it again.

This article is the last one from my series on BrewDog. BrewDog Camden and Punk IPA - Review, BrewDog Indie Pale Ale - Review, BrewDog Slot Machine - Review and BrewDog Albino Squid Assassin - Review