Left Hand 400 Pound Monkey

While I don’t quite get where the name came from with Left Hand 400 Pound Monkey, I do get what they’re trying to do with the style.

To me, English IPAs focus a bit more on balance of malt and hops and aren’t simply out to destroy your palate. Spicy hops lead the way but there’s a distinct wheat breadiness. Also some of the hard water flavor found in a lot of English ales. Very unique mixture of hops including Magnum, Boadicea and Sovereign.

More punch than a Pale Ale, not as much as most IPAs. Respectable 6.8% ABV that adds just a touch of warmth.

It’s definitely good, but maybe a step below their porters, stouts, and the Good Juju.

Grade: B