The West Coast IPA craft beer style first became a thing on the United States’ West Coast; known for being crisp and clear, showing off the best of the modern American hops. I was keen to try the TWO BAYS gluten-free version of the West Coast IPA – ‘Hop The Wall’ – after hearing about all the cool things they are doing with it over in the US.
When you first crack the can, you get a piney smell on the nose, with hints of citrus and apricot. Pouring it into a glass, I found it had quite a head of foam, before it dissipates into a nice, clear colour. Compared to the other TWO Bays beers I’ve tried, it definitely has more of a complex malt structure, and a stronger ‘hoppy’ flavour.
It’s still got that bitter and moderate dryness taste to it, and the aftertaste is more subtle than the punches of hops you get initially. Again, it’s definitely more on the beery side than your usual TWO Bays beer, so if you’re just starting out on the gluten free beer train, I’d begin with the Pale Ale. Another winner by TWO Bays!
