Brewery – Hardknott
Beer – Code Black
Alcohol – 5.8%
Origin – Millom, Cumbria
Style – Black IPA
Season – Autumn
Black IPA’s seem to be the fashion statement of 2012! Hardknott, Thornbridge, BlueBall, Moor, Stone, Rogue are all at it, but Hardknott recognise the fad aspect of it and flaunt it in their own hilariously honest way.
Pitch Black and Silky; this ale is sexy! and to top it off, a frothy, foamy, and clinging head.
Chocolatey and Hoppy at the same time, the nose is strong, complex, and enticing.
I think you can class this as Jaipur’s Dark Side! Peach Passionfruit flavours are contrasted by toasted bbq smokiness, making this ale exciting, unusual and distinct.
The finish is buttery with further toasted notes and has an underlying bitter-sweetness.
At 5.8% this ale is dangerously drinkable, exciting, intense, and packed full of flavour. I cannot recommend you try this enough.
Greg Beresford
Beer Brain 