Beer Review: Wayfinder SpellBound West Coast IPA
- Brewery: Wayfinder Beer
- Style: West Coast IPA
- ABV: 7.2%
An enigmatic libation that dances on the line between dankness and juiciness, SpellBound is a West Coast IPA that casts a spell upon the palates of the brave and the curious. Wayfinder’s flagship IPA is brewed to be both aggressive and balanced, showcasing a tantalizing blend of robust hop aromas with a subtle malt backbone to provide a smooth, dry finish.
Appearance – SpellBound pours with a clear, golden-yellow hue, topped by a persistent, foamy white head. The clarity is classic for a West Coast IPA, and the head leaves a beautiful lacing on the glass as it recedes, a testament to its brewing quality.
Aroma – The aroma is a complex and captivating blend, truly living up to its name. There’s a powerful, dank, pine resin character that immediately transports you to a fresh pine forest. Vibrant, zesty citrus notes of grapefruit and lemon beautifully balance this. Hints of a sweet, gummy-like character add a unique layer to the nose, making it both intriguing and inviting.
On the palate – SpellBound is a journey of flavors. It begins with a bold, aggressive hop presence, dominated by grapefruit pith and sharp lemon zest. This initial bitterness is followed by a subtle, balancing sweetness that gives way to intriguing notes of gooseberry and mango. A touch of spice emerges on the mid-palate, adding another dimension to the complexity.
Finish – The beer has a moderate, clean bitterness that is not overpowering, resulting in a crisp and dry finish.
Wayfinder’s SpellBound is a masterclass in modern West Coast IPAs. It successfully bridges the gap between the classic dank, resinous style and the more contemporary juicy, tropical hop profiles. The balance is superb, and the crisp, dry finish makes it incredibly drinkable. It’s a beer that satisfies the desire for a pine-forward IPA while also offering a new, captivating complexity. SpellBound is a must-try for any fan of the style.