Beer Review: Shred Hot Headed – West Coast IPA
Brewery: Shred Beer Company (in collaboration with Wondrous Brewing Co. and Berkeley Yeast)
Style: West Coast IPA (specifically, a Cold IPA variant)
ABV: 6.6%
Hops: Peacharine, Krush Cryo, Columbus Cryo, Nelson
Yeast: Fresh Chico Ale Yeast (Shred’s version)
- Appearance: “Hot Headed” pours a brilliantly clear, bright golden amber, a classic West Coast IPA hue that lets you see right through it, distinguishing it from its hazy counterparts. It builds a robust, frothy white head that maintains good retention and leaves substantial lacing on the glass, a testament to its clean fermentation and hop load.
- Aroma: The aroma is a vibrant and complex bouquet, truly indicative of a modern West Coast IPA. You’re immediately hit with a potent mix of bright citrus, particularly grapefruit and tangerine, intertwined with a distinct dank and resinous quality. There are also intriguing notes of stone fruit and berries, likely from the Peacharine and Krush Cryo hops, adding a layer of juicy sweetness. A subtle hint of pine and a touch of a unique “marijuana” or “green” aroma can also be detected, contributing to its “hot-headed” character.
- Taste: The palate delivers a powerful yet balanced hop punch. The initial taste is a burst of zesty citrus and tropical fruit, with prominent grapefruit, lime, and a hint of passionfruit. This is quickly followed by the signature West Coast bitterness, which is firm and assertive but clean, avoiding any harshness. The dank and resinous notes from the aroma translate beautifully, providing a satisfyingly dry and lingering finish that truly cleanses the palate. Despite the intensity of the hops, there’s a lean malt backbone that provides just enough support without adding sweetness, allowing the hops to shine. The “Cold IPA” influence, due to the Chico Ale yeast, contributes to its crispness and drinkability.
- Mouthfeel: This IPA has a medium-light body that feels incredibly crisp and refreshing on the tongue. The carbonation is lively and effervescent, contributing to its overall brightness. The finish is remarkably dry, leaving a pleasant, lingering bitterness that encourages another sip. It’s incredibly quaffable for its ABV, showcasing the clean fermentation and well-attenuated profile.
Overall Impression:
Shred Beer Company’s “Hot Headed” is an outstanding example of a modern West Coast IPA, leaning into the “Cold IPA” sub-style with impressive results. It successfully marries intense hop aromatics and flavors with a clean, dry, and highly drinkable profile. The hop blend is expertly chosen, delivering a complex array of citrus, tropical, and dank notes that are both bold and refined. This beer is a must-try for West Coast IPA enthusiasts who appreciate a clear, bitter, and aromatic hop-forward experience. It’s a true “hot-headed” delight that will leave you wanting more.