Beer Review: Barebottle Cryo Diesel Hazy IPA (7.0% ABV)
Barebottle Brewing Co.’s “Cryo Diesel” Hazy IPA is a powerful, aromatic exploration of modern hop technology, promising an intense sensory experience. At 7.0% ABV, this beer aims to deliver a dense fog of hop flavor, amplified by the concentrated magic of cryo hops.
Appearance: Poured into a glass, Cryo Diesel exhibits the characteristic murky, opaque haze of its style, glowing a vibrant, hazy golden-orange. It builds a soft, pillowy white head that persists well, leaving thick lacing down the sides of the glass as you drink. The visual presentation is exactly what one expects from a well-crafted Hazy IPA.
Aroma: It’s where Cryo Diesel truly announces its presence. It’s an intoxicating blast of tropical fruit, intensely dank notes, and citrus zest. Expect massive waves of ripe mango, passionfruit, and a strong undercurrent of sticky, resinous pine. There’s a distinct “diesel” character, true to its name, which manifests as a pungent, almost gassy or herbal note, likely a signature of the cryo hops used. It’s complex, bold, and incredibly inviting for hop heads.
Taste: The taste mirrors the aromatic intensity. Upfront, there’s a lush sweetness of tropical fruit—mango, pineapple, and a touch of stone fruit—that quickly gives way to the dank, resinous qualities. The “diesel” comes through as a prominent, slightly herbal and earthy bitterness that is unique and assertive. Despite the bitterness, it maintains a juicy character on the mid-palate, preventing it from becoming too harsh. The finish is surprisingly clean for such a hop-forward beer, with a lingering dankness and a touch of citrus zest. It’s flavorful and robust, showcasing the depth that cryo hops can provide.
Mouthfeel: Medium to full-bodied, Cryo Diesel boasts a soft, velvety mouthfeel that is a hallmark of the Hazy IPA style. It’s smooth and creamy, with a gentle carbonation that helps carry the intense flavors across the palate without being too prickly. The finish is relatively dry, which helps balance the initial juiciness and encourages another sip.
Barebottle’s Cryo Diesel Hazy IPA is a bold and adventurous brew that will undoubtedly appeal to those who love their IPAs intensely hoppy, dank, and juicy. It’s a fantastic showcase of cryo-hop technology, delivering concentrated flavors and aromas that are both familiar and uniquely pungent. While the “diesel” character might be a bit polarizing for some, it adds an intriguing layer of complexity that sets this Hazy IPA apart. If you’re looking for a potent, aromatic, and flavorful hazy that pushes the boundaries, Cryo Diesel is definitely worth seeking out.