01. ELYSIAN SPACE DUST IPA

Elysian Space Dust IPA in a bush off my patio.

Brand: Elysian Brewing Company

Line: Space Dust IPA

IBUs: 62

ABV: 8.2%

Origin: Seattle, Washington

Pre-Taste Thoughts

Without having ever tried this beer, I had a general expectation of what I'd be getting since I've had a few imperial IPAs before. The main reason I purchased this beer in particular was partially due to all the recommendations I'd heard from friends, but what sent me over the edge was someone else in the grocery store recommending I buy it when I was looking for a nice 6-pack to purchase. As far as packaging goes, (the most important aspect, I know), I'm into it. I like the colors, the little hop is kind of cute, but it is a little bothersome that it looks like the hop is throwing up.

First Sip Thoughts

Alright, so my first sip of this beer sent a literal shiver down my spine and a scowl across my face, not exactly what you'd hope for when you opened the first of 6 beers you just purchased. I love a good hoppy beer just as much as the next person, but something about the mix of citrus and bitter in the very first sip caught me off guard.

Final Thoughts

Okay, so despite my less than stellar first impression of this beer, I ended up liking it and drinking not one, but two in an evening! The taste of the beer grew on me, but the 8.2% ABV knocked me on my butt. While the taste was good, it did seem a little watered down to me and didn't pack as hard of a hoppy punch as I expect from an imperial IPA. This would probably be a good IPA to ease someone into heavier IPAs. Overall, I would recommend (however, I probably wouldn't buy another 6 pack) but be wary of a weird first impression.