Why we're here...

Beer culture is coming of age. At any store, restaurant, bar, or friend's house you can now find at least a few good brews. In fact, there seem to be so many new beers, breweries and bars it's difficult to separate the good, the bad, and the mediocre.

If you're going spend $10 on one beer, what should you buy? If you're going to drive 2 hours to check out a brewery, what's worth your time? If you're going to plan a Friday night, what has a good selection and friendly atmosphere? We're here to help you answer these questions.

Sunday, August 7, 2011

Stone Cali-Belgique IPA

Stone Cali-Belgique IPA is a Belgian IPA by the Stone Brewery in Escondido, California (San Diego). This IPA uses Stones' traditional IPA but uses Belgian yeasts to bring out, well, the distinct Belgian flavors. This is only the first step for Stone's real move into Europe.

I bought this at Curtis Park Market for $4.49 for a 22oz bottle. It has an ABV of 6.9%.

It pours a nice golden color with a thin fizzy head. The aroma is subtle, with the Belgian yeast, some spice and tart fruit tones. Taste there's a grapefruit, spice, hints of tropical fruit, and the hops. The body is light and well carbonated. The finish is crisp, refreshing and with a sweet and tart finish.

Overall I like this beer. It took a few sips to really dig into it and once I got use to the medley of flavors, I really enjoyed. The Belgium yeast flavor, which does not always tickle my fancy, plays a supporting character, more of a backbone to all the flavors.


This is now one of Stone's regular brews so Try It. There are other Belgium IPAs out there which are very competive with this one, so if you like this style check out Urthel Hop-It, Green Flash Le Freak, and especially Houblon Chouffe.
Posted by North Cal Beer Bloggers at Sunday, August 07, 2011
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