Welcome back hop heads and beer lovers! This week we have a true hop bomb thanks to Stone. This series of beers, affectionately referred to as “Enjoy By” has been Stone’s mission to get the freshest, most hoppy beer, into the hands of the consumer as quickly as possible. Simply put, this is fresh, hoppy goodness, meant to be enjoyed as fresh as possible, hence the “Enjoy By” date. Just look at the hops used in the brewing process — Ahtanum, Super Galena, Simcoe, Amarillo, Delta, Target, Calypso, Cascade, Citra, Galaxy, Nelson Sauvin, Motueka and Helga.
Upon this beers inception it was available in very limited quantities in very limited areas, and sold out quite quickly. As time has gone on, this beer has been able to reach more markets and more hop hunters, thank goodness!
Brewery: Stone Brewing Co
Beer: Enjoy By IPA – 07.04.15
ABV / IBU: 9.4% / 88
Appearance (4.0/5) — As this leaves the bottle it pours a very bright and exceptionally clear orange/copper color in the glass. There is a tall bright white head that forms, but it fades quickly into a thin layer set atop the beer, leaving behind great consistent lacing of foam along the inside of the glass.
Aroma (4.5/5) — Holy hops! Juicy, piney, resinous, bitter, bright, sweet. Lots of pineapple juice and mango here, as well as bitter fresh lemon juice and peel. Little peachy sweetness and a bit of stone fruit.
Taste (4.5/5) — Not quite as sweet as the aroma would suggest, there is a nice balance of sweet juicy hop notes of pineapple, and peach, balanced with a piney and herbal dank bitterness. Slightly sweet malt foundation.
Mouthfeel (4.0/5) — Very smooth and dry, there is a bit of a residual sweetness and resinous note that alludes to the high ABV, but overall it is very well balanced.
Overall (4.5/5) — This is a great showcase and exercise of fresh hops in the best possible way. This is meant to be consumed fresh for a reason. Some beers age well, and this is not one of them. Go out and enjoy this one fresh.
As good as this beer is on its own, it can also be paired with a variety of dishes. Enjoy this brew with chips & salsa or guacamole. Enjoy with a spicy seafood gumbo or stew. Or simply enjoy it with good company.
Usually this beer goes quite quickly but it would certainly be a nice way to toast the upcoming Independence Day holiday that adorns the label!
Have a great week all!