Overview:

Located in Squamish, BC, Howe Sound Brewing can trace their roots back to the grandfather of North American craft beer, John Mitchell, who started brewing in Horseshoe Bay back in 1982. The second in Howe Sound's Sea-to-Sky series, their Riesling IPA boasts two kinds of hops, including one variety from Australia. It takes it's name from the addition of riesling grape must, imparting a slight white wine character to the nose and taste.

Aroma:

Quite sweet smelling, grape aromas come through nicely, very bright. Hints of tropical fruit also waft up from the glass, due to the use of Galaxy hops.

Appearance:

Bright, slightly cloudy golden colour. Long lingering thin head.

Flavour:

The first thing I noticed was the bitter finish this beer has, sharp and lingering. Tropical fruit flavours rush over your tongue, but the beer is largely still, I would've liked a bit more carbonation. The grape must makes itself apparent on the second sip, as you start to notice the slight grapiness this beer has, then it becomes the only thing you really notice once you've found it.

Overall:

An easy drinking IPA, with a modest 6% ABV. I would've liked a bit more carbonation, I think more effervescence would do this beer a world of good. The grape must started off subtle, then became a bit of a distraction as the beer started to warm up. Drink this one cold.

Rating:

6/10.

Food Pairing:

Indian cuisine, I feel a nice mango chutney would pair nicely with this. Or a dessert, perhaps a fruit platter to complement the tropical fruit notes. A nice rich creme brulee or fruit pie would also be good.