IPA Snapshots --Flower Power and Odyssey

by Ryan Gerstel

Flower Power IPA

Flower Power is a dry hopped American-style IPA from Ithaca Beer Company located in New York.

Like the name suggests, Flower Power is a beautifully crafted single IPA, and its elegance can be identified in every aspect of the beer drinking experience.

Flower Power pours a nice, slightly hazy gold with a delectable finger of  head that remains until the first sip.

The aroma is equally beautiful as notes of tropical fruit, accompanied by a subtle hint of classic citrus, enters the nostrils.

The aroma is a harbinger of a heavy floral hop flavor brimming with Simcoe, Centennial, and Amarillo notes. A rush of mild hop flavor follows but is quickly rounded out by a sweet malty backbone. The finish leaves a little dryness on the tongue.

Although the brew's ABV sits at 7.5 percent, Ithaca's excellent craftsmanship effectively disguises the alcohol and results in a nice, refreshing single IPA that lives up to its name.

Odyssey Imperial IPA

Canned craft beer pioneer, and venerated Pottstown, PA brewer Sly Fox, has just released its annual 8.5% ABV double IPA, Odyssey. Sly Fox changes the recipe each year so you are never really sure what to expect.

This year Odyssey pours a hazy, toasted amber color with a half inch foam head that slowly dissipates after pouring into a pint glass. Lacing is quite minimal, but it is lasting.

This brew features one of the nicest noses I've had the pleasure of enjoying in a double IPA. The aroma is a very distinct, crisp citrus scent with notes of sweet tropical fruit in the background.

Odyssey has a nice, voluminous mouth feel that tag teams with an aggressive piney bitterness. The 90 IBUs shine through on the front end with a dank pine flavor, but it's not too harsh on the palate. The boldness of the hops is backed up by a subtle malt backbone, but the sweetness quickly disappears and results in a nice, dry finish.

Don't let the 84 score on Beer Advocate deter you from trying this delicious IPA because, in my opinion, it warrants at least a 90.  Odyssey is  only available this time of year, so if you're a fan of big DIPAs, make sure you stop in and purchase a 12 pack or a case before it's gone.