Dinner Jacket O'Red IPA

When I think of a dinner-jacket affair, with a tie—perhaps, tails—I do not think of beer. Instead, I think of champagne and caviar.

But one look at this can and you think outdoors, the great wilderness, and beer.

The "dinner" jacket that dons this beer can is a lumberjack plaid.

The folks at Arch Brewing, in Guelph, are brewing under contract through Wellington Brewery, and have concocted an Irish Red-India Pale Ale hybrid that delivers a unique taste.

Dinner Jacket O'Red IPA (6.3% ABV)
Arch Brewing Company
Guelph ON

Appearance: amber-red with an ample, foamy beige head that clings to the sides of the glass as it settles to a solid, foam cap.

Nose: light toffee, subtle citrus, and malt.

Palate: caramel, toasted malt, and bitter hops that appear in the finish. Alcohol builds in the aftertaste.

Overall impression: this is an interesting take of an Irish Red ale, with more body and bigger hops (though not overpowering). It starts off well-balanced but I could taste more alcohol in the finish with subsequent sips. The alcohol doesn't overwhelm the finish but it's distinct, and I would have liked to taste a little less of it.

Still, it's a good, solid ale, and if you enjoy Irish Reds, you'll enjoy this ale. No dinner jacket required.

Beer O'Clock rating: 2.5

Cheers!