Moonlight Brewing Co. Tipple Wet Hop Winter Ale Review
Moonlight Brewing Co.’s Tipple Wet Hop Winter Ale is a delightful journey into the heart of winter, wrapped up in a can. From the moment you crack it open, the beer promises a rich and complex experience, and it certainly delivers.
Appearance: The ale pours with a deep, inviting amber hue, reminiscent of a crackling fire on a cold night. It forms a modest, creamy head that dissipates steadily, leaving a delicate lacing on the glass.
Aroma: The “wet hop” character shines through. There’s a vibrant burst of fresh, earthy hop character, mingled with notes of pine and citrus, which is beautifully complemented by a backbone of roasted malt. Hints of dark fruit and a touch of spice, perhaps cinnamon or nutmeg, emerge as it warms, creating an intricate and enticing bouquet that perfectly encapsulates the winter season.
Taste: The first sip is a revelation. It’s wonderfully balanced, with the bold, verdant freshness of the wet hops cutting through the rich, roasty malt base. The bitterness is present but well-integrated, never overwhelming the palate. You’ll find flavors of dark caramel, chocolate, and coffee from the dark ale, harmonizing with the bright, almost resinous hop notes. There’s a subtle sweetness that rounds out the profile, preventing any harshness and making each sip incredibly smooth. The promised “amazing complexity” is evident, with layers of flavor unfolding as you drink.
Mouthfeel: Tipple boasts a medium-to-full body that feels velvety and luxurious on the tongue. It’s remarkably smooth, with a gentle carbonation that lifts the flavors without being overly effervescent. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a pleasant warmth and lingering hop and malt notes.
Moonlight Brewing Co. has crafted a truly exceptional winter ale with Tipple. It’s a beer that invites you to slow down, savor each moment, and get lost in its intricate flavors, just as the label suggests. The use of homegrown wet hops elevates this dark ale, adding a freshness often missing in winter seasonals. It’s a perfect companion for a chilly evening, a hearty meal, or simply enjoying the quiet contemplation of winter. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a complex, flavorful, and incredibly well-made winter ale.
Available at SF Tequila Shop