For those of you in the know, know that you can recognize a Stone Brewing beer from the other end of the bar. That signature gargoyle sitting atop a clever name for well-deserving beer. That gargoyle always catches my eye whether I see it in the grocery store or at the bar. I like that about Stone Brewing. They want you and the people around you to know that you are drinking a Stone beer. They also put a little story on each bottle, whether it pertains to that beer or not depends, but nonetheless it makes it more than just a beer, its a drinking experience, if there is such a thing.
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| I love that gargoyle |
This particular IPA is just what it name says it is, a 16th anniversary IPA. Perhaps what sets it apart is the fact that according to the bottle it is aled with a lemon verbena, an Argentinian seasoning often described as "more lemon than lemons" and lemon oil. This really means nothing to me except that it adds, in my opinion, a VERY noticeable finish to an otherwise strong, spicy IPA. The bitterness of the hops comes through strong and rightfully so as this actually a double IPA. The ABV on this beer is 10% and boy can you tell, the high alcohol provides another bite to the finish that lets you know what you're getting into, something I can appreciate. Also, the aromatics of this beer are phenomenal. I usually don't obsess or even harp over the aroma of a brew, but damn, this beer smells great!
This particular bottle was the last bottle on the shelf at my local store, however I do believe that Stone Brewing has produced all of their previous anniversary ales for most of the year. If that's not the case don't worry, they will definitely release a 17th anniversary IPA sometime next year. That's the other great thing, they've made an anniversary IPA every year since their second year in business. So if your wondering what's so special about the 16th anniversary the answer is nothing, Stone Brewing just loves making great beer, and thats why I love them!
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