BELL’S SONG OF MYSELF GERMAN-INSPIRED IPA

Frustratingly unspecific Euro-bent IPA lacks true stylistic allure as German hops and malts never coalesce into anything uniquely exciting. Instead, sharp grapefruit-orange-pineapple tang and wispy banana daiquiri boozing lost in a sea of subdued floral, herbal and vegetal notions. Musky turnip dankness and delicate lemongrass riffs reach lingered grassy hop astringency.

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STONY CREEK CRANKENSTEIN

“Unorthodox” limited edition (2019) West Coast/ New England-styled IPA merger slightly overstates its ‘experimental’ aspect. Though bright lemon-peeled orange and pineapple tanginess brings solid West Coast influence, its sourly acidic New England styling seems adrift as limey passionfruit, vinous green grape tannins and candied pineapple tartness never fully integrate. Mild lemongrass snip also informs mildly hopped moderation.

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BELL’S SPARKLEBERRY BELGIAN-STYLED ALE

On tap at Ambulance, sparkling raspberry ale with enough lactic Belgian Framboise thrust, sour cherry tartness and sulfuric green grape esters to denounce its teasing tripel tag. Subtle champagne spritz, delicate Chardonnay buttering and dry rosé wining detail its multi-berry midst. An elegant sweetly soured Framboise with ample raspberry-pureed fruit juicing securing savory affluence.

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