Ransack the Universe

I have never tried a Collective Arts beer that I didn't like, if not love. Their flavours are bold, fresh, and tasty, and they always go down so well.

Their latest brew is no exception.

What more needs to be said?

Ransack the Universe Hemisphere IPA (6.8% ABV)
Collective Arts Brewing, Ltd.
Hamilton, ON

Appearance: unfiltered, deep amber to orange, with a foamy, beige head that pours thick and clings to the side of the glass as it settles to a solid cap. Even as the beer goes down in the glass (and down my throat), a thin but solid cap remains.

Nose: bitter hops, with orange rind and a touch of pine.

Palate: the bitterness continues, mixed with strong orange peel. The finish is long and bold, and screams IPA.

Overall impression: this is a classic strong IPA with big flavour. It's easy to drink if you're serious about your bitter ales, but you'll want to do so responsibly, given the 6.8% ABV. A friend of mine had two pints of Ransack on Saturday night and even though she's a seasoned beer drinker, she felt them.

Beer O'Clock rating: 3.5

It's getting to a point where I'm getting nervous about seeing another Collective Arts can on the LCBO shelves. I see the varied artwork, I remember the good experiences with the previous brews, and I worry as though I'm playing Russian roulette. Eventually, I'll find one that will disappoint me.

But not today. Hopefully, not ever.

Cheers!