Beer Review: THERAPIST Imperial IPA by Dust Bowl Brewing Co.
★★★★½ (4.5/5 Stars)
In the realm of Imperial IPAs, Dust Bowl Brewing Co.’s Therapist is nothing short of a sensory revelation. This liquid rebellion defies conventional brewing wisdom and challenges the very limits of hop-driven intensity.
From the moment this deep golden, slightly hazy brew cascades into the glass, it’s clear this is no ordinary IPA. The aroma is a powerful assault of resinous pine, tropical fruit, and assertive hop oils that vibrate with an almost electric energy. It’s as if the beer is challenging you to a flavor duel.
The first sip is a masterclass in controlled chaos. Massive hop concentrations explode across the palate—think bold citrus rind, aggressive pine resin, and an undercurrent of ripe mango and passionfruit. The bitterness is substantial but remarkably nuanced, avoiding the trap of pure hop brutality and offering a complex, evolving flavor landscape.
At what I estimate to be around 9-10% ABV, the Therapist delivers a potent punch balanced by a subtle malt backbone that prevents total hop domination. A warmth and depth suggest this beer is as much about the experience as pure flavor intensity.
The brewing philosophy here is audacious—this isn’t just a beer, it’s a statement. Each sip feels like a carefully constructed sensory intervention, pushing beyond traditional brewing constraints and inviting the drinker to surrender to the experience.
Pairing recommendations?
Bold, spicy foods that can stand up to this hop monster—think Thai cuisine, extra-sharp cheeses, or even a robust blue cheese burger. This is not a beer for the faint of heart or the casual craft beer tourist.
Dust Bowl has created something more than just a beer with the Therapist. It’s a liquid manifesto, a hoppy proclamation that true craft brewing knows no boundaries.
Pros:
- Incredibly complex hop profile
- Perfectly balanced intensity
- Unique sensory experience
- Masterful brewing technique
Cons:
- It may be overwhelming for hop-averse drinkers
- Not a sessionable beer
Final Verdict: This is a must-try for serious hopheads and those who view beer as an art form. The Therapist is in session, describing pure, unadulterated flavor.