Fernie Brewing – Off Axis Double IPA

Fernie Brewing – Off Axis Double IPA Review

Well over a year ago, if not longer Fernie Brewing really got into the IPA’s. Over the years, I have remembered Fernie for the malt-forward beers, red ales, brown ales, and their huckleberry, but their IPAs of those past days seemed light and malty compared to the Superflux, Backcountry, and Boombox beers that have spoiled me. Well, that has changed. Now, not only have they quite the pale, hazy, and IPA portfolio, they also have an IPA series with a new release every two months.

The Off Axis Double IPA is the October/November release; a double IPA with the use of Galaxy, Cashmere, and Cascade. This beer is hopped at the start and the end of the fermentation, so it truly is double hopped! Unlike many double IPA’s that end up extra boozy and still quite malty, this version is quite drinkable and is pretty balanced, for an 8% a high alcohol beer. The combination of Cascade, Galaxy, and Cashmere hops creates a well-rounded blend of citrus, tropical, and just a hint of floral.

This beer pours a clear golden amber colour with a huge head of foam that rapidly disappears. There is no denying that this is a bold beer! There is a hint of booziness along with the citrus aroma of the hops, and that carries through with each sip, but the sweet malt backbone softens it. Now that I know about this series I will be searching for it on a regular basis.