Palm Bender

• TYPE: Gulf Coast IPA
• BREWERY: Big Storm Brewing Company
• LOCATION: Florida: Clearwater, Odessa, Cape Coral, and Orlando
• CONTAINER: 4-pack 16 oz cans
• COST: $9.99 (Total Wine)
• ABV: 7.0 % ABV
• RATING: 4 swigs
• REVIEWED BY: Dave

In the early morning when I look up at the Royal Palms, their cool ropes of scented fruit dropping down as the heat of the day begins to rise, I look forward to three o’clock, where I meet up with my buddies on the Thursday and we sample different beers.  Today, a smooth IPA with a great start, smooth middle, but an unexplained flat finish.  The color is beautiful and this brew holds true to what makes an IPA an IPA, but I wish there was just a little more to the finish.  However, the cost per fluid oz is well worth stocking this one in the fridge.

THEIR STORY: To create a uniquely fresh IPA, we took the firm bitterness you’d expect from a West Coast style and added a blend of hops to produce notes of citrus you associate with Florida.  The result is Palm Bender Gulf Coast IPA, a Hophead’s dream with a sunny twist.  The two-row barley and aromatic malts balance the initial bite with a slightly toasty finish.  Pairs well with: Jerk Wings, Pepper Jack and Carrot cake.