Rating System
(from best to worst)
Excellent, Outstanding, Very Good, Good, Above Average, Average, Below Average, Poor. Undrinkable
"+" or "-" indicate half way to next level
From Bottles to Growlers- beer reviews by SANDY FELD, certified taster
DuClaw Neon Gypsy

Yet another solid but standard American IPA (6.5% ABV).  The
nose brings semi-tropical sweet fruits, light hops, pine and hints
of bread.   Taste starts off with a blast of grapefruit which then
joins with caramel, pine, honey,grass, and malt.  As the finish
nears a nice bitter hop bite emerges leading to a solid dry
ending.  There are far worse IPAs out there; this is a decent one.

Overall rating:- Above Average.+
Innis & Gunn Toasted Oak IPA

At 5.6% ABV this is almost a session English style IPA.  It opens with
a light sweetness that blends smoothly with gentle  citrus notes.  At
mid-sip the sweetness reappears bringing tastes of oak and vanilla
that fit nicely with a somewhat floral finish.  Overall the body is just
a bit light but its low carbonation is spot on for the style.  If you
enjoy an English IPA which means only a touch of hops, you'll find
the oak makes for an interesting, well made, satisfying drink,

Overall Rating - Good
Having sampled nearly 4,000 different beers in my
capacity as a fully certified taster I can promise
honest, thoughtful, and careful evaluations.  However,
remember that these reviews are totally subjective.  
Consider this column an informative resource only.  
The bottom line is to trust your own judgment and
keep drinking!  

Sandy
Beers Reviewed
Finch's Threadbare IPA

This 6% ABV IPA opens with smells of
orange, pine, and damp hay.  Taste starts
with a harsh bitterness backed by citrus,
orange, and ever increasing malt notes. By
mid-taste the hops have blended with lightly
sweet, dank, earthy notes.  Pine and citrus
re-emerge at the finish but it's almost too
late.  With so many excellent IPAs available
it's hard to imagine seeking this out.

Overall Rating: Below Average+
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