Finally got around to trying the beer that many consider to be the gold standard of regularly available Double IPAs. Cornwall’s premier craft brewery Verdant is well known for the bold DIPA’s but ‘ALLEN’ is the classic that everyone knows. It comes in at 8% an features the hops peoplle know and love; Simcoe, Mosaic, Citra. I’d been looking forward to trying this for a long time so was desperately hoping it didn’t disappoint.

The beer pours a very hazy, tropical juice like colour with a large white head. The nose is ripe, fresh and fruity but with a decent air of booze about it too. Great flavour, lots of citrus and packed to the brim with those tropical notes. Mouthfeel is that iconic creamy and softness I come to expect from Verdant. Still little hints of hoppy bitterness to add that little bit of contrast.

A quick note on the can art: Perhaps the most simple can design of all time? Literally just the name of the beer on a blank background. Yet it is has turned into a very iconic can design!

I think I can clearly see (and taste) why it is such a well regarded Double IPA. Considering the strength it has certainly hit that drinkability factor. As the beer warms up it those fruity mango, pineapple mandarin flavours become oven more prominent and impactful. Incredibly tasty and well balanced beer that I would love to get a taste of on draught for that pure unfiltered experience!

Score: 9/10

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Additional Information:

• Hops: Citra, Mosaic, Simcoe, Nelson Sauvin
• Malt: Not Available
• IBU: Not Available
• ABV: 8%
• Gluten Free: No
• Vegan: Yes!