Here it is, the mythical beer with a cult-like following: Heady Topper! Again, I’m going to review from both the can and my Alchemist IPA glass.
From the can:
Again, no idea what clarity or head retention are like, but the smell is balanced (for an IPA), with a distinct but not overpowering piney hop character and some clean doughy malt underneath. Taste is clean and crisp up front, with a subtle fruitiness, notes of apple or apricot maybe, and medium body. The finish is much smoother than the Focal Banger, moderate bitterness and more fruity notes, with a touch of added citrus for good measure.
From the glass:
Very hazy but no noticeable particulate, head retention is light, but this is definitely a better pour than the Focal Banger. Smell is really more of the same aromas from the can, soft malt and balanced piney hops, but in the glass you get a much better whiff of it, some of the fruity flavors can be discerned. Taste is dry and crisp all the way through, but impeccably balanced with the same fruitiness underneath and a medium body. The finish is a bit juicier and more citrus and tropical fruit flavors are present, with the same restrained bitterness.
Overall, yes, this is worth every bit of hype. This beer has everything you want from a great IPA: a range of juicy and aromatic hop flavors spanning the spectrum, a perfect balance with crisp, clean malts, and the NE style specialty of hazy unfiltered yeast that adds a nice subtle fruit flavor underneath it all to bring it all together. If you ever have the chance to buy it, buy as much as you can!
